Low Water Boating Restrictions
Updated September 2021.
Due to low water conditions at San Pablo Reservoir only kayaks, canoes and non-trailered vessels are allowed to launch at this time.
Recreation area open, COVID-19 restrictions continue
Updated June 2021.
Please cover your face when approaching others outside of your personal social bubble.
Fishing: Open - Permit required. No fish cleaning tables.
Picnic/BBQ: Picnicking and BBQs allowed at single tables - maximum 10 people per site.
Playground: Open - maximum capacity of 10 people.
Welcome to San Pablo Reservoir
San Pablo Reservoir is an East Bay gem, which offers opportunities to get on the water or view the lake from hiking trails and picnic spots.
Things to Do
Picnicking
Reservations for Gazebos sites will remain closed. Picnicking and BBQs allowed at single tables on a first-come, first-served basis - maximum 10 people per site.
Fishing
San Pablo Reservoir is stocked regularly with trout and catfish, and is known as one of the finest fisheries in the East Bay. Pick up a fishing license, bait and tackle at the visitor center, and talk with knowledgeable staff who can give you tips on the best fishing spots. California fishing license and EBMUD fishing permit required.
Fishing Derbies
Postponed until further notice.
Boat Rentals
Only all-day rentals of deluxe motor boats are available, by reservation or walk-up, and are limited to 20 vessels per day. No other boat types are available for rent. Visit Rocky Mountain Recreation or call 510-223-1661 for prices and additional information.
Boat Launch
All private vessels must be launched at the boat launch area. San Pablo’s six-lane boat launch facility is open daily (including holidays) for motor boats, kayaks, canoes and inflatables. Vessels must be at least 7 feet, 10 inches in length and inflatables must have at least 3 air chambers. All boats must be inspected before launch to prevent Quagga Mussels from entering EBMUD waters. To further preserve high water quality, only four-cycle engines and 2-stroke engines equipped with direct fuel injection that are rated 2 stars or greater are allowed to launch at the reservoir. All engines must have star labels that meet the exhaust emission standards set by the California Air Resources Control Board. No paddle boards or personal watercraft are allowed.
Kayaking/Canoeing
You’ll find some of the best flat-water kayaking and canoeing in the East Bay at San Pablo. Paddle along 14 miles of shoreline and discover sandy beaches, great fishing, and interesting wildlife.
Hiking
View our 3-D trails map* for information on trails near San Pablo Recreation Area, including the Old San Pablo Dam Road trail which connects to Kennedy Grove and Briones Reservoir trails. More information on EBMUD trails available here.
*Use Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.
Wildlife
See flocks of white pelicans, geese, ducks, and shorebirds, and along the trails, upland species such as wild turkey, quail and dove, plus predators such as eagles, osprey, hawks, and owls. Be on the lookout for deer. otters, coyote, and bobcats.
Bring your dogs
Dogs are welcome at San Pablo Recreation Area in the west side parking lots and paved roads. Dogs are not allowed in any boat or in the reservoir. Please keep dogs on a leash (6 foot maximum), and no more than three dogs per person.
No swimming
This is a drinking water reservoir; swimming or body contact is not allowed.
Related Links
Invasive Mussel Prevention Requirements
Watershed and Recreation Rules and Regulations
Literature
| Document | Type | Size |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 San Pablo Recreation Use Fees | <1 MB | |
| San Pablo Recreation Area Fishing Advisory | <1 MB |