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🏞️ Lake
4,340 ft elev.
Hemet Lake (Lake Hemet)
Mountain Center / Idyllwild
🎣 Fishing
⛵ Boating
🏕️ Camping
Mountain Views
🏞️ Lake Views
📸 Scenic
👨👩👧👦 Family
Mountain lake at 4,340 feet in Garner Valley below Idyllwild — fishing, paddleboarding, and a popular family campground.
Lake Hemet is a 420-acre mountain reservoir in Garner Valley on the back side of the San Jacinto range. The lake is open for fishing, paddleboarding, and small boats, with a campground, RV park, store, and group picnic areas. It's a favorite quiet alternative to Big Bear for south-IE families.
🌟 Why Locals Love It
Pines, cooler air, and quieter than Big Bear.
What to Expect
Family campers, anglers, calm water, and pine-fringed shoreline.
💡 Good to Know Before You Go
No swimming; entry/day-use fee applies.
📍 Local Tip
Drive up via Garner Valley for one of the most scenic IE backroads.
Best Time to Visit
May–October.
Notable Features
420-acre mountain lake
Garner Valley setting
Campground & RV park
Amenities
Restrooms
Showers
Picnic Area
BBQ Grills
Parking
Trails
Fishing Dock
Campground
Boat Launch
Marina
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