2025
Area Calendar
Saturday • August 2
Huntington Lake
Association Annual Meeting
9 AM • China Peak
huntington lake
Billy Creek Guard
Station Museum
2025
Sunday • July 6
Huntington Lake
Volunteer Fire Dept.
Pancake Breakfast
8-11 AM • China Peak
FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK BUTTONS BELOW
Saturdays • 11 AM - 4 PM • July 5 - August 30
At the Museum!
The Beginning
A Jewel in the High Sierra
The Huntington Lake Basin and the high Sierra were first populated by Native Americans and later with pioneers who were herders, loggers and visionaries for one of the world's foremost hydropower projects. Today's community boasts a rich legacy left by these early settlers with a heritage that is unique and revered by all who visit or live in the area. Visit the Museum to learn more about the history of Huntington Lake!
A Camping We Will Go
Recreational Playground
The new lake and its high-Sierra setting attracted many who established summer camps for young men, women and families. Before the Huntington Lake Lodge was built and other subsequent resorts were erected, Camp Edwards was established in 1912 at the south end of the lake between Dams 2 and 3. The tent cabins for visitors were the only alternative if one wasn't housed in a work camp or simply camping under the stars. Experience the "Jewel of the Sierra".
The Big Creek Project
Lighting Los Angeles
The natural power of flowing water from the high snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada is harnessed to generate electricity by the Big Creek Hydroelectric Project run by Southern California Edison. Six man-made lakes, a series of tunnels and pipelines and nine powerhouses operate together to create what is known as the hardest working water in the world. Come learn about one of the largest hydroelectric projects in the United States.
Sierra Summer School
Nature Study
From 1918 - 1950, Fresno State Normal School ran a six week summer session for students located at Huntington Lake. Six units at Sierra Summer School included art, biological sciences, geology. music and nature study. With many extracurricular activities, Sierra Summer School was the best way to beat the valley heat and get college credits at the same time. Come learn more about this unique Huntington Lake educational experience!
From The Sky
Loss of The Exterminator
On December 6, 1943, a B-24 Liberator, Exterminator, took off from Fresno's Hammer Field on a search mission; while over Huntington Lake, the plane developed engine troubles and the pilot called for the crew to abandon ship. Two crew members bailed out and six perished with the plane when it crashed into the lake. The location of the Exterminator was unknown until 1955 when the lake was lowered for dam repairs. Come find out the whole story and see some recovered artifacts in our Bomber Room!
A Family of Friends
Recreation
A common thread through the years is the gathering of families and friends renewing ties and traditions. Afternoons spent on the docks and on the shore, laughter coming from the nearby campground or cabin, sails flapping in the breeze, the quiet sound of a fisherman trolling in a cove, the stillness of the first snow, are all moments that have been experienced by each generation. Without this heritage each generation starts over.