‘God’s country’: Memorial Day brings crowds to Millerton Lake

MILLERTON LAKE, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – Locals flocked to Millerton Lake on Monday to soak up the sun and enjoy some water-filled fun for the unofficial kickoff to summer.

From early morning, the boat launch was buzzing with activity as lines of cars, trucks, trailers, boats, and jet skis filled the entrance. 

For many, it’s a tradition to spend Memorial Day weekend on the water.

“We came out here yesterday for a couple of hours just to try out our new boat,” said boater Ramzey Rojas, who returned with his family for another day of recreation. 

“Of course, we’re celebrating the veterans, the wars they fought, the freedoms that we have. But what are the freedoms for? To enjoy God’s country out here.”

Lake officials warn: be safe, be sober.

California State Park officials say lake activity spikes significantly over the Memorial Day weekend, as warmer weather draws more people outdoors.

“With the weather getting better here at the lake, it’s beautiful out here. People start coming out more and more,” said Ian Farrell, California State Park Supervisor and Peace Officer.

But with more people on the water comes greater risk. 

Farrell emphasized that the most common causes of boating accidents are inexperience and alcohol.

“A lot of our boating accidents involve two things — inexperience and alcohol. The way to prevent that is to have a sober driver, just like when you’re driving a car,” he said.

New this year, all boaters in California, regardless of age, are required to carry a California Boater Card. 

The card is designed to ensure boaters are educated on boating laws and safety protocols.

“It’s pretty monotonous, the whole course and everything else,” Rojas said of the required training. “But if you need it, you need it. If you don’t want to pay the fine, get it. Forty bucks. Big deal.”

As the summer season begins, Rojas has a few words of advice for fellow boaters.

“Enjoy yourself, be responsible, look out for people around you. Don’t drink and boat.”

Need a Boating License? For more information on how to obtain a California Boater Card or to apply, click here.