Bass Lake, situated in Madera County, California, within the Sierra National Forest and approximately 14 mi south of Yosemite National Park, is a popular recreational area. The lake, formed by the Crane Valley Dam on Willow Creek, a tributary to the San Joaquin River, spans about four miles in length and one-half mile in width. Constructed in 1910 by Pa…Bass Lake, situated in Madera County, California, within the Sierra National Forest and approximately 14 mi south of Yosemite National Park, is a popular recreational area. The lake, formed by the Crane Valley Dam on Willow Creek, a tributary to the San Joaquin River, spans about four miles in length and one-half mile in width. Constructed in 1910 by Pacific Gas and Electric, the 145 ft concrete gravity dam generates hydro-electric power through controlled releases. The lake supports a diverse ecosystem, including species such as black bears, mule deer, bald eagles, and Great blue herons, along with a variety of fish species.