Lake Valley Reservoir
...long, somewhat narrow shape is great for flatwater paddling.
DESCRIPTION:
Pleasant rolling, forested hills setting; quick easy access from I-80.
The long, somewhat narrow shape is great for flatwater paddling. The lake lies at an angle that the hills protect it from normal winds.
Silver Tip Picnic Area is provided and maintained by the Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) Company: Elevation 5840’, 10 picnic sites.
Normal capacity 8,000 Acre Feet.
Elevation 5786’. Season May through October.
The lake is drawn down severely by late summer.
DIRECTIONS:
To Lake Valley Reservoir
Take the Yuba Gap exit to the south, follow Crystal Lake road east 0.4 mile to Big Valley Reservoir Road. Turn right (south) and follow for 1.2 mile then veer right on the Six Mile Valley Road. Campground ahead 0.7 mile. Boat ramp and picnic area is on the left fork of the road.
See North Fork American River Map.
ACTIVITIES:
Boating Lakes & Reservoirs (Rating: Best)
Fishing boats with 10-mph limit and small non-motorized craft. Boat ramp at Silver Tip Picnic Site, but water low by late summer.
Flatwater paddling is excellent as the speed limit favors paddling or small fishing boats. Long lake allows you to flex your muscles. Watch for winds but the lake is normally protected by the hills better than most lakes.
Camping (Rating: Good)
Lodgepole Campground is operated by the Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) Company. 35 campsites, fees.
Elevation 5860’. Operated from late June through Labor Day.
Fishing (Rating: Good)
Bullhead catfish are out competing trout and dominate the lake population, but rainbow catchables and fingerlings planted regularly. Early season fishing is the best with a few rainbows in the 12”-17” range.
