Recreation area open, COVID-19 restrictions continue
Updated September 2, 2020
Please cover your face when approaching others outside of your personal social bubble.
Parking: Open
Restrooms: Open
Fishing: Open - permit required
Fish cleaning station: Closed
Visitor's Center & Shop: Open
Boat rentals: Limited. See "Things to Do" for more information.
Boat launch: Open. See "Things to Do" for more information.
Picnic/BBQ: Closed
Playground: Closed
Hours of operation: Daily, 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Contact: Rocky Mountain Recreation or call 510-223-1661
Updated trail maps
EBMUD is pleased to offer the 2020 update to the trails maps, including an interactive 3-D version with detailed trail locations, access points, elevations, amenities and a search function that allows users to find their ideal trails. Visit East Bay trails for more information.
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
Picnic sites are currently closed.
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
As of Friday, July 10, 2020, only all-day rentals of deluxe motor boats are available with a 24-hour reservation. No other boat types are available for rent. Visit Rocky Mountain Recreation for prices and additional information.
Boat Launch
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 at San Pablo.
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 like wild turkey, quail and dove, plus predators such as eagles, ospreys, hawks, and owls. Also be on the lookout for deer 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; no swimming is allowed.
Related Links
Invasive Mussel Prevention Requirements
Watershed and Recreation Rules and Regulations
Literature
| Document | Type | Size |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 San Pablo Recreation Use Fees | <1 MB | |
| San Pablo Recreation Area Fishing Advisory | <1 MB |