Pardee Reservoir

Pardee Reservoir, located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It serves as a critical source of drinking water for the East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) while offering plenty of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking. Swimming is not allowed in the reservoir, in line with state regulations, but visitors can enjoy swimming pools near the café, open daily.

For fishing, Pardee is well-known for its trout, including brown trout and kokanee salmon, along with black bass, catfish, and various panfish like crappie, bluegill, and sunfish. A valid California fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older, along with a $7.25 daily access fee. Up to four children under 16 can fish for free when accompanied by a licensed adult. The access fee helps fund fish stocking for the lake.

The reservoir offers a range of accommodations, with 141 shaded campsites spread across two campgrounds. Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring, and amenities like running water, flush restrooms, and laundry facilities are just a short walk away. The RV Park has 56 fully modernized sites, each with electrical, water, and sewer hookups, plus a new group gathering area. Two ADA-accessible sites are also available.