The San Joaquin River Gorge SRMA is located at the upper portion of Millerton Lake and is accessed through the town of Auberry, CA. The area is managed by Bureau of Land Management (BLM) with trail heads for the San Joaquin trail. The trail leads through chaparral uplands with mountain lilac, manzanita, mahogany and ma
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 916-985-4474
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Pa'san Ridge Trail, San Joaquin River Trail, Wuh-ki'o Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at San Joaquin River Gorge Special Recreation Management Area. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Depends Do you need a permit to climb?
Rock climbing is available here; some routes or areas may need a permit. Check current climbing regulations first.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Nearby sites
Millerton Lake
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
Hensley Lake
CheckArmy Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.