ESCONDIDO — Construction is underway on a new ranger station at Dixon Lake as crews install a trailer to replace the park’s former facility.
For the past three years, Dixon Lake has operated without a central ranger station after the previous trailer — originally installed more than 20 years ago in already used condition — was demolished in 2022 due to a severe mold infestation.
The city solicited bids for the replacement earlier this year and, with City Council approval on March 19, awarded a $398,648.53 contract to Atlas Performance Industries, Inc. According to the agreement, installation must be completed within 120 days of the city’s notice to proceed with construction.
First established in 1976, the Dixon Lake Recreation Area is operated by the lakes division of Escondido’s Utilities Department. The lake sits at an elevation of 1,045 feet in the avocado-covered foothills about one mile northeast of the city, adjacent to the southern entrance of Daley Ranch via La Honda Drive.
The park features several miles of hiking and biking trails, climbing areas, fishing and other water activities, playgrounds, picnic spots and camping sites.
In other park updates, city spokesperson Mike Thorne says the city hopes to restore water service at the Daley Ranch House restrooms in the coming weeks.
Though he did not specify the exact issue, Thorne said it was a “complex” problem with the water system.
