Lake Morena is a camping and fishing park located in the east county community of Campo.  Situated southwest of the Laguna Mountains, the park features characteristics of desert, coastal and mountain habitats. A reservoir shines blue in the middle of 3,250-acre park that is surrounded by oak woods, shrubs and grasslands and an abundance of wildlife.

Beginning April 1, boats as well as personal watercraft, fishing float tubes, canoes and kayaks will be allowed in the reservoir.  Motorboats are also available to rent for daily fishing and sightseeing activities.

The boat-launch fee is $8. View other rates and related information on the park page.

All boats must undergo a quagga mussel inspection prior to launch. Quagga mussels are an invasive species that aggressively filter phytoplankton, upsetting the natural ecosystem of a body of water.

To pass inspection, vessels and equipment must be clean, drained and dry:

• Clean of any visible mud, plants, fish, or animals on the watercraft, equipment and trailers
• Drained of all water, including from the lower outboard unit, ballast, live-well, buckets, etc., and drain plugs should be unplugged prior to arrival
• Dry all areas and equipment including anchor lines, life vests, waders, live wells, and trailers  

“Reopening the boat launch is a big deal for us and for local fishermen. People can now enjoy the lake from their own boats,” said James Stowers, Supervising Park Ranger at Lake Morena. “We encourage everyone to visit the lake this spring, and to participate in activities like fishing lessons and animal encounters.”

You can also see what’s ‘biting’ in their weekly fishing report. As a reminder, swimming is prohibited at Lake Morena because it is a working reservoir.

Stay the day or spend the night! Lake Morena County Park has 86 tent and RV sites, along with 10 wilderness cabins. Eight miles of trails venture through the property including a new TRACK Trail for kids, which turns ordinary hiking into a scavenger hunt with prizes. Other amenities include a playground, artifacts exhibit with live animals, and pavilion. Parking is $3 per vehicle for non-campers. 

For more information, call the park at (619) 579-4101 or RSVP today!