Picnic and BBQ with the family at Jenks Lake in the San Bernardino National Forest

For many considering using Barton Flats, Lobo - Oso, San Gorgonio, or Heart Bar Campgroundsas a higher-altitude getaway in Barton Flats Recreation Area, Jenks Lake can be a definite deciding factor. Nestled into the San Bernardino National  Forest at 6,739 feet and only a mile from Barton Flats Campground, this mountain lake is very well visited in the summertime—and for good reason.

Even though it’s man made, Jenks Lake is fed in part by the Santa Ana River, which it receives by way of a flume. There are no motorboats allowed, but canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and float tubes are a go. There is a long wooden ramp from which to launch your watercraft, but be aware that you’ll have to walk it down a few stairs first.

A big draw for Jenks Lake is the excellent fishing. It’s stocked in the spring and summer with rainbow trout, and the best time to catch them is between April and October. Largemouth bass, bluegill, sunfish and catfish are also fun targets for anglers. For those that prefer river fishing, the Santa Ana River is accessible from the campground and is an excellent place to cast flies for trout.