Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area

Discover Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area, nestled in California’s Diablo Range. It is just nine miles southeast of Livermore. This 4,316‑acre oasis centers on a 5‑mile reservoir encircled by oak‑covered hills—ideal for families, anglers, equestrians, and paddlers alike.

What Makes Lake Del Valle Unique

Built in 1968 as part of California’s State Water Project, Lake Del Valle offers a diverse, year‑round recreation hub. From its gentle swimming coves to the rugged foothills of the Ohlone Wilderness Trail, this park merges reservoir-based adventures with wide-ranging ecosystems—oak woodland, rolling chaparral, and native grasslands—while offering educational programs and wildlife viewing.

Top Activities & Amenities

🚤 Boating, Marina & Boat Launch

The East Beach marina rents various boats. These include motorboats, patio boats, pedal boats, canoes, and kayaks. There’s a public boat ramp for trailered rigs. The lake allows sailboats and windsurfers, but hydrofoils and e‑foils are prohibited. A 10 mph speed limit keeps conditions calm for fishing and paddling.

🎣 Fishing & Swimming

Lake Del Valle is regularly stocked with trout, catfish, bass (striped and largemouth), and panfish. Anglers over 16 need a California license plus EBRPD permit. Two lifeguarded swim beaches offer safe summer dips, though water stays cool outside peak season.

🥾 Hiking, Biking & Horseback Riding

Over 28 miles of trails link lakeside loops with hikes into the Ohlone Wilderness. Trails vary from easy paved paths to rugged single‑track through oak ridges. Equestrian facilities include campsite staging and the Little Chaparral horse camp with paddocks and trailer parking.

🏕️ Camping & RV Facilities

The Del Valle Family Campground provides 150 sites: 124 tent‑drive‑in, 21 RV hookups (water, electric, sewer), plus 5 furnished cabins and equestrian sites. Groups up to 150 can reserve dedicated camp areas. Vault toilets and hot showers are centrally located.

🧺 Picnicking & Group Areas

Multiple day‑use picnic spots offer tables, BBQ grills, shade, drinking water, and restrooms. Group areas and a campfire amphitheater host ranger‑led programs, storytelling and seasonal events.

🦌 Wildlife Viewing & Interpretive Center

The Visitor Center (open weekends in summer) shares exhibits on the reservoir’s history and ecology, and staff lead boat tours and interpretive hikes. Wildlife includes deer, turkeys, raptors, and waterfowl.

🚻 Restrooms, Showers & Accessibility

Flush toilets, coin-operated hot showers, drinking water, and drinking spigots are available near campgrounds, beaches, and the marina. EV chargers are set up in day‑use parking.

🚐 RV Dump Station

An on‑site dump station serves RV camping loops; potable water is available throughout.

Visitor Tips

  • Fees & Reservations: Day‑use not covered by annual pass; parking/dog fees apply at entry ($2 per dog). Campground and group sites reserve via ReserveCalifornia or EBRPD.
  • Water & Algae: Harbor occasional algal bloom advisories—check current conditions before swimming.
  • Boat Inspections: All boats must pass invasive mussel inspection before launch.
  • Pets: Leashed dogs welcome in developed areas—no pets on beaches or trails.
  • Boating Rules: Stick to 10 mph speed limit; no hydrofoils or hoverboards.
  • Ranger Programs: Check Visitor Center (weekends summer) for guided hikes, boat tours, interpretive events.
  • Trail & Horse Safety: Horses and bikes restricted to designated routes; equestrian campers use staging areas.
  • Cell & Wi‑Fi: Limited cell service; camp store offers basic Wi‑Fi aloft.

Local Insight & Seasonal Tip

Strive to arrive early in summer weekends—to beat crowds and parking delays. Paddle at dawn: flat glass waters and mist rising from the lake deliver serene moments before the day heats up. Fall brings cooler temps and prime hiking weather—the hills glow with golden grasses. For a quiet sunrise escape, bike the lakeside road before vehicle traffic begins. Finally, reward your outing with a short drive to Livermore’s winery country—sample award-winning reds while recounting lakeside memories.

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