Top 6 Lakes in Calaveras County
Lakes in Calaveras County, California, are situated in the Sierra Nevada foothills, providing a variety of natural and man-made water bodies. This region offers diverse recreational opportunities across its lakes, catering to different outdoor interests. The area's lakes are known for their scenic settings and accessibility for visitors.
Best lakes in Calaveras County
- The most popular lakes is New Melones Lake, a lake that straddles the border of Calaveras and Tuolumne counties. This large reservoir provides electric power, irrigation, and flood control, alongside opportunities for hiking, biking, swimming, boating, fishing, and camping.
- Another must-see spot is Lake Camanche, a reservoir created by the Camanche Dam across the Mokelumne River. This destination is popular for outdoor activities, including family and group camping, with rental cottages and RV sites available.
- Visitors also love Pardee Reservoir, a man-made lake formed by the Pardee Dam. Fishing, hiking, and camping are popular activities, with boat rentals also available for visitors.
- Calaveras County is known for its artificial lakes and reservoirs, as well as smaller high-country lakes. These bodies of water offer a range of activities from serene fishing to active water sports.
- The lakes in Calaveras County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 2 highlights featuring photos and 2 highlights receiving upvotes.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
New Melones Lake
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Lake Camanche
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These days it is a popular recreation destination for all manner of outdoor activities. The day use and camping areas do fill to capacity regularly throughout the busy summer season, so early planning is essential if you don't want to miss out.
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Pardee Reservoir
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Fly-In Acres Reservoir
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White Pines Lake
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Tips from the Community
This reservoir was created when the Camanche Dam was built across the Mokelumne River in the 1960s. The dam and lake get their name from the former town of Camanche, that now lies deep below the surface of the water. These days it is a popular recreation destination for all manner of outdoor activities. The day use and camping areas do fill to capacity regularly throughout the busy summer season, so early planning is essential if you don't want to miss out.
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This is a great place to bring the whole family. Plenty of room for the kids to run around plus picnic areas and a trail around the lake if you want to go for a walk.
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The Pardee Dam was built across the Mokelumne River between 1927 and 1929. Upon its completion the Pardee Reservoir was created. Fishing, hiking, and camping are popular with boat rentals being available as well.
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New Melones Lake straddles the border of Calaveras and Tuolumne counties. In addition to providing electric power, irrigation water, and flood control to the area the lake is also open for recreation. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, swimming, boating, fishing, and camping.
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Fly-in Lake seems now mostly a meadow-wetland that often dries out except for the center of the creek. It's still a nice clearance and sometimes offers opportunities to observe wildlife.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of activities can I enjoy at the lakes in Calaveras County?
The lakes in Calaveras County offer a wide range of activities. You can enjoy water sports like swimming, boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Many lakes also provide opportunities for fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and camping. For example, New Melones Lake is excellent for hiking, biking, swimming, boating, fishing, and camping.
Are there family-friendly lakes in Calaveras County?
Yes, several lakes are particularly well-suited for families. White Pines Lake near Arnold is a favored spot with picnic areas, a children's playground, and opportunities for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Lake Camanche also offers extensive family and group camping facilities, including rental cottages and RV sites.
Which lakes are best for fishing in Calaveras County?
Calaveras County lakes are known for excellent fishing. New Hogan Lake is a prime spot for striped bass, black bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. Lake Camanche is renowned for bass and trout, with 60,000 lbs of trout planted annually. Pardee Reservoir is also well-regarded for trout, kokanee salmon, black bass, and catfish. For a quieter experience, Salt Spring Valley Reservoir offers good fishing for bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish.
What hiking opportunities are available near the lakes?
Many lakes in Calaveras County offer access to hiking trails. You can find easy trails like the Arnold Rim Trail near White Pines Lake. Pardee Reservoir also has popular hiking options. For more extensive hiking, explore routes like the Angels Creek Trail or the Mokelumne Coast to Crest Trail: Pardee Section, which you can find in the Hiking in Calaveras County guide.
Can I go boating or kayaking on the lakes?
Boating and kayaking are popular activities on many lakes. New Hogan Lake allows for water skiing, wakeboarding, sailing, and cruising. Lake Camanche offers boat rentals, though outside watercraft are restricted due to Golden Mussel concerns. Salt Spring Valley Reservoir allows jet skis and boats, and also offers kayak and paddle boat rentals. New Melones Lake is also a great spot for boating.
Are there camping facilities at the lakes?
Yes, several lakes provide camping options. New Hogan Lake offers extensive camping opportunities. Lake Camanche is a multi-award-winning campground with rental cottages and RV sites. Pardee Reservoir also features camping facilities, including RV sites. For an affordable overnight stay, Salt Spring Valley Reservoir is a good choice. While camping isn't directly at White Pines Lake, options are available nearby at Calaveras Big Trees State Park.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Calaveras County?
The lakes in Calaveras County offer year-round recreation, but the busy summer season is particularly popular for water activities. Planning ahead is essential if you visit during peak summer months, especially for popular spots like Lake Camanche.
Are there any unique natural or historical features near the lakes?
Yes, the region offers interesting features. Near White Pines Lake, you can visit the Sierra Nevada Logging Museum. Lake Camanche was formed over the former town of Camanche, which now lies deep below the water's surface. Fly-In Acres Reservoir, though sometimes drying out, can offer opportunities to observe wildlife.
What cycling routes are available near the lakes?
Calaveras County offers various cycling routes that pass near or around its lakes. You can find road cycling routes like the 'Pacific Placer Reservoir β South Spillway loop' or touring bicycle routes such as the 'North Fork Stanislaus River β Calaveras Big Trees State Park loop from Arnold'. More details are available in the Road Cycling Routes in Calaveras County guide and the Cycling in Calaveras County guide.
Are there any facilities like cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
While many lakes offer picnic areas, specific facilities vary. Pardee Reservoir, for instance, features swimming pools next to a cafΓ© for visitors. It's always a good idea to check specific lake amenities before your visit.
Which lake is a good option for a quiet getaway?
For those seeking a peaceful outdoor retreat, Salt Spring Valley Reservoir is an excellent choice. It's known for its natural beauty and tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for a quiet escape.
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Still not found your perfect lake in Calaveras County? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.
