BASS LAKE — Warmer weather and pent-up desire to be outdoors spurred by two months of quarantining has drawn larger crowds than usual to Bass Lake this month, according to the Madera County Sheriff’s Office.
But because of the COVID-19 pandemic, public restrooms at the popular recreation spot have been closed and trash service suspended. So MCSO has stepped in to try to remedy the situation until things get back to “normal.”
“In the interest of the environment and community health, we have rented portable restrooms, hand washing stations, and dumpsters for use at a handful of key spots around Bass Lake,” said Deputy Sarah Jackson, MCSO public information officer, who added that the Sheriff’s Office is paying for the equipment rentals out of its own budget.
Jackson said the locations of the temporary public amenities are:
- Just west of Falls Beach
- Way of the Mono Trail parking lot (1 trash can only)
- The Forks Resort parking lot
- Just past Lakeside Amphitheater
- Bass Lake Dam
Jackson said another issue around the lake right now is parking. “With parking lots and campgrounds closed, we are experiencing more illegal/unsafe parking than normal.”
Local law enforcement authorities have stepped up patrols around the lake and will be issuing warnings and/or citations to those not parking properly or adhering to social distancing guidelines.
“We have also mobilized our Boat Patrol three weeks early in order to help everyone be safe,” Jackson added. “So if you’re coming to Bass Lake, please recreate responsibly. Pack your trash, use the temporary facilities, and practice water safety.”
