About Wildcat Equestrian Area
Overview Wildcat Equestrian Area at Buchanan Dam, H.V. Eastman Lake is a perfect launchpad for activities like horseback riding, birding and hiking. Tucked in the Sierra Nevada foothills, the area attracts abundant wildlife like bobcats, bald eagles, golden eagles, and hawks. Wildcat Equestrian Area is a equestrian group area with water, vault toilets, horse corrals and hitching posts. Recreation Wildcat Equestrian Area at Buchanan Dam, H.V. Eastman Lake is a perfect launchpad for activities like horseback riding, birding and hiking. Facilities Wildcat Equestrian Area facility offeres areas for camping, horse hitching posts and corrals, water, bbq, fire pits, picnic tables, vault toilets, and access to showers. Natural Features The rolling hills around Buchanan Dam, H.V. Eastman Lake are surrounded by tall grasses and scattered oak trees, giving way to stunning mountain views. The lake features 1,780 surface acres, fed by the cool waters of the Chowchilla River. Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (559) 689-3255. Nearby Attractions The Sierra National Forest is a short drive to the east of the campground.
How to Get There
Eastman Lake is 30 miles northeast of Madera, 25 miles east of Chowchilla, and 50 miles north of Fresno. From Highway 99, travel east on Avenue 26 then north on Rd 29. Follow signs into the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
UPF sun shirt (long sleeve)
Cooler than direct sun on bare skin.
- 🩳
Light shorts/skirt
Loose-fit, breathable.
- 🧢
Wide-brimmed sun hat
Plus a buff/bandana you can wet for cooling.
- 🕶
Polarized sunglasses
Critical for glare from sun + sand/water.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection (UV 8)
SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm w/ SPF, sunglasses, sun hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Wildcat Equestrian Area
Heading to Wildcat Equestrian Area? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Wildcat Equestrian Area?
No central reservation system listed for Wildcat Equestrian Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10327336) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Wildcat Equestrian Area?
Eastman Lake is 30 miles northeast of Madera, 25 miles east of Chowchilla, and 50 miles north of Fresno. From Highway 99, travel east on Avenue 26 then north on Rd 29. Follow signs into the campground.
How do I contact Wildcat Equestrian Area?
You can reach the park at phone: (559) 689-3255 or email: eastman-info@usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
