Lake Berryessa
Overview
Nestled between Blue Ridge and Cedar Roughs, east of the Napa Valley, Lake Berryessa offers year-round recreation opportunities. Berryessa's water reaches temperatures of up to 75 degrees in the summer, making it an ideal place for water sports. Anglers enjoy fishing for both cold and warm water species, such as rainbow trout, bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. The Bureau of Reclamation provides two large day use areas (Oak Shores and Smittle Creek), Capell Cove launch ramp, and many smaller dispersed day use areas. The seven resorts around the lake are managed by concessionaires under contract with Reclamation and provide camping, day use and boating facilities.
At capacity, Lake Berryessa stores 1.6 million acre feet of water and is one of the largest bodies of fresh water in California. The lake is 26 miles long by 3 miles wide, with 165 miles of shoreline. Reclamation and the California Department of Fish and Game jointly manage a 2,000 acre wildlife area along the east side of the lake. The Monticello Dam area at the southeast corner of the lake is one of the best local birding areas. The best time to visit for the best birding opportunities is in the early spring and late fall during migration and nesting seasons. The grassy hills dotted with oak and manzanita provide excellent opportunities to view eagles, hawks, songbirds, wild turkeys, and deer. Shoreline viewing opportunities may include Canada geese, pelicans, great blue herons, western grebes, wood ducks, snow geese, and common loons.
Activities
Boating
Boating is allowed on the lake but please check with the visitor center weather motorized or non motorized is allowed.
Bicycling
Please contact park services for more information.
Auto/Motorcycle
Please contact park services for more information.
Camping
Camping and RVing is available, Please contact park for availability and restrictions.
Fishing
Anglers enjoy fishing for both cold and warm water species, such as rainbow trout, bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill.
Hiking
The Bureau of Reclamation provides two large day use areas (Oak Shores and Smittle Creek), Capell Cove launch ramp, and many smaller dispersed day use areas.
Hunting
Please contact park services for more information.
Picnicking
The Bureau of Reclamation provides two large day use areas (Oak Shores and Smittle Creek), Capell Cove launch ramp, and many smaller dispersed day use areas.
RVing
RV campsites are available, please contact the visitor center for more information.
Water Sports
Lake Berryessa offers year-round recreation opportunities. Berryessa's water reaches temperatures of up to 75 degrees in the summer, making it an ideal place for water sports.
Winter Sports
The lake is a popular winter sports destination.
Directions
Driving
Lake Berryessa is located 70 miles northeast of San Francisco and 40 miles west of Sacramento. Nearest towns are Napa to the southwest or Winters to the east. Nearest highways are state highways 121 and 128.
Phone Numbers
Primary
(707) 966-2111Links
Official URL
http://www.usbr.gov/mp/berryessa/facts.html- Login or register to post comments
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