Diamond Valley Lake

Built in the saddle of two mountains, Diamond Valley Lake—Southern California’s newest and largest reservoir—is a vital link in the regional system that’s brought water to Southern California for the past 60 years. The lake nearly doubled the area’s surface water storage capacity and provided additional water supplies for drought, peak summer and emergency needs.


Water began pouring into the reservoir in November 1999 and the lake was filled by early 2002. Diamond Valley Lake holds 800,000 acre-feet, or 260 billion gallons of water. By comparison, Lake Havasu, on the Colorado River, holds just 648,000 acre-feet or 201 billion gallons.(copied from their website) 

Looking at the lake from the lookout the first picture is on the right and you see the earthen dam and a second dam in the far center (hard to see);  the second picture is the center view with the third dam out of view and the third pictures  is on the left with the pump house,

The lookout is about 5 miles from the park.. The water is low due to the drought.

Dogs are not allowed at the lookout, only in the parking lot.  It was stifling hot and we decided  not to go to the top and leave Logan in the hot car.  The Ranger came over and said she would keep Logan while we walked to the top. 

She was from Memphis and an avid Elvis fan. Her sister went to school with Elvis.  So we got good stories.  She would say "Thank you very much" and try to sound like Elvis.  She was fascinated with  Logan and gave him water and treats, and more treats.  Logan really liked her. 

We ate lunch in the shade of the make shift tent.  I realized after seeing the condition of the rangers skin that those who work unprotected in the desert environment literally cook their skin.   It really pained me to see the condition of her skin..