Pardee Reservoir is in one of the most beautiful settings in the Mother Lode, it’s an easy drive from valley and Bay Area locations. It’s the perfect outing for day or weekend of picnicking, camping, fishing, RV’ing and relaxing with the family. The peace and quiet here is perfect for seniors and families.
The dam across the Mokelumne River that creates the Pardee Reservoir, was built in 1929. The design incorporates a one-lane road at the top and is an attractive feature of the reservoir
Pardee Reservoir: Camping
Camping at the lake offers 141 oak-shaded camp sites with picnic tables and fire rings in two separate campgrounds available on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s just a short work to the camp laundromat, bathrooms and running water. Two ADA, wheelchair-accessible sites are also available. Over 50 RV sites with full hookups come with picnic tables, fire rings and fully electrical, water, and sewer connections. RV Park guests can also enjoy a new group gathering area.
Pardee Reservoir: Fishing
About 90 percent of Pardee Lake anglers fish for trout, both from the shore and from boats. Other available species include Brown Trout, Kokanee salmon, Black Bass, and three kinds of catfish. Children will particularly enjoy the fast-paced fishing for crappie, bluegill and sunfish.
A valid California fishing license is required for individuals 16 years of age or older. In addition, there is a Pardee fishing access fee of $5 per day for each individual 16 years of age and older. Up to 4 children, 15 years of age and younger, may fish without a daily fishing access permit as long as they are accompanied by a licensed adult with a valid fishing access permit. The Pardee access permit funds are used to re-stock the lake with fish.
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Pardee Reservoir: Boating
Motorboats, deluxe boats, pontoon boats and deluxe pontoons are available daily. There is a 10-lane launching facility that is open daily. All boats must be surveyed and are subject to inspection before launching to prevent invasive Quagga Mussels from entering EBMUD waters. Vessels from Southern California and out-of-state are prohibited from launching on Pardee Reservoir unless they have gone through a decontamination process.
Pardee Reservoir: Hiking
The entrance fee includes access to the hiking trails along Pardee’s shorelines. These trails have portable toilets for your convenience.
Food
Café Pardee offers hearty breakfasts and offers other specials throughout the afternoon. The café also has a store that stocks ice, wood, beverages, groceries and other supplies for camping needs.
Bring your dogs
Dogs are welcome (fee required) in developed areas, but must always be leashed and controlled.
Wildlife
Many species of birds reside at Pardee Lake. Keep an eye out for ducks, geese, eagles, ospreys, hawks, owls, and wild turkeys. Other animals include squirrels, rabbits, and deer. Less likely is the possibility of spotting a coyote, bobcat, rattlesnake, or mountain lion, all of which possess a solitary, elusive nature.
Swimming, wading & jet skis: PROHIBITED IN THE LAKE
State law prohibits body contact in this lake. There are two swimming pools, one for children and one for adults, available seven days a week.
