Wildfire Damage Assessment of Project Recreation Facilities in the Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area

Strategic Insights -

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has been informed by the California Department of Water Resources (DWR) regarding the wildfire damage to Project 2426 recreational amenities at the Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area (SRA). The Lake Fire, which started on June 28, 2025, burned 209 acres within the SRA and 280 acres of the adjacent San Bernardino National Forest. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Lake Fire, which occurred on June 28, 2025, burned 209 acres within the Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area (SRA) and 280 acres of the adjacent San Bernardino National Forest.
  • The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) closed State Route 138 to all traffic during and following the Lake Fire to complete safety assessments and critical repairs.
  • On July 24, 2025, Caltrans reopened the highway under one-way flagging control while crews removed and replaced 4,000 feet of damaged guardrail, signage, and asphalt for public safety.
  • The Pacific Crest Trail within the Silverwood Lake SRA was damaged, with split rails and signs burned.
  • The fire burned mainly chapparal brush and trees, with other damaged items including park signs, fencing, charcoal grills, and service/picnic tables.
  • The DWR will provide FERC with subsequent updates on the status of Project recreation facilities.
  • The damaged small restroom building was demolished, and there is no plan to replace it, but to improve one of the other larger restrooms.
  • The recreation facilities at Silverwood Lake SRA are managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation (DPR) in partnership with the DWR.

Statistics:

  • 3,000 visitors and campers were evacuated from the Silverwood Lake SRA when the Lake Fire broke out.
  • The Lake Fire was fully contained on July 6, 2025.
  • 4,000 feet of damaged guardrail, signage, and asphalt were removed and replaced by Caltrans crews.
  • 209 acres of the Silverwood Lake SRA and 280 acres of the adjacent San Bernardino National Forest were burned by the Lake Fire.

Sources:

  • Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
  • California Department of Water Resources
  • California Department of Parks and Recreation
  • California Department of Transportation (Caltrans)
  • United States Forest Service