Cachuma Lake is a reservoir in the Santa Ynez Valley of central Santa Barbara County, California on the Santa Ynez River adjoining the north side of California State Route 154. The artificial lake was created by the construction of Bradbury Dam, a 201 foot earth-fill structure built by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation in 1953. Its surface area covers 3,100 acres, with a maximum design capacity of 205,000 acre feet, but it is currently limited to 188,000 acre feet due to sediment accumulation. As of May 23, 2019, it is at 80.8% of capacity.
Built by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation in 1953, the name “Cachuma” comes from a Chumash village that the Spanish spelled “Aquitsumu”, from the Barbareno Chumash word aqitsu’m, meaning “sign”.
Body contact activities such as swimming, wading, or water skiing in Lake Cachuma have been restricted since the park opened in the 1950s, reasoning that the lake was a reservoir people depend upon for drinking water. In May 2011, the no body contact regulation was revised to allow human-powered recreational watercraft such as kayaks and canoes on the lake as well as allow dogs on boats and eliminate “incidental body contact” with the water as a punishable offense.
The water levels of the lake are highly variable, spilling in some years and receding to less than 10% of capacity in dry years. Drought conditions can cause shortage in water supplies, as did the 2011-17 drought.
In October 2016, the lake approached low levels not seen since the construction of Bradbury Dam. The lake level reached a minimum of 646.42 feet on October 14, more than 106 feet below the spillway elevation. At this time, the storage volume was only 14,057 acre feet, approximately 7.3% of capacity.
In January and February 2017, a series of frequent rains raised the water level substantially. On one day, February 17, 2017, the lake rose an astounding 25 feet during the storm alone, followed by further increases from storm runoff.[7] By the end of February 2017, the Lake had become 44.5% full, with a total volume of 85,979 acre feet. The Lake’s water level declined again during the 2017-18 water year, with the Lake receding to less than one-third of its capacity. However, by March 28, 2019, above-normal precipitation had restored Lake Cachuma to 78.0% of its capacity.
Despite an abnormally dry January and February 2020, a wet March and April has brought the lake to 77% of capacity as of April 7, 2020, with reservoirs upstream spilling.
Santa Barbara County Parks offers cabin and yurt rentals, as well as RV, tent, and group camping. Gasoline and groceries are available at the general store. There is a full boat and kayak rental facility with a bait and tackle shop where fishing licenses can be purchased. The lake is stocked with rainbow trout throughout the winter season, and fishing is open all year from shore or boat. There are five miles of hiking trails within the park, and Los Padres National Forest trails close by.
A large campsite on the south shore of Cachuma Lake is administered by the Santa Barbara County Park’s division of the Community Services Department.
The University of California, Santa Barbara rowing team regularly practices and races at Lake Cachuma and erected a permanent boathouse there just prior to the 1982-1983 school year. The lake is also a popular destination for viewing bald eagles from seasonal tour boats.
Solvang, California is approximately 10.5 miles to the west of Lake Cachuma. The town of Santa Ynez, California is approximately 7.25 miles to the west of Bradbury Dam.
- Surface area (mi)
- 7.8
- Max depth (ft)
- 150
- Elevation (ft)
- 669.29
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 42
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Ice Fishing
- Cross-country Skiing
Islands
Emerging from the crystalline waters, the islands of Cachuma Lake offer a serene escape from the bustling world beyond. This enchanting destination, located in Santa Barbara County, is steeped in rich history, once serving as a pivotal site for the Chumash people, who revered its natural bounty. Today, the islands are a hidden gem, popularized by hiking trails that meander through stunning landscapes, leading to breathtaking lookouts that offer panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
For the adventurous, hiking trails reveal rare flora and fauna, while photographers are drawn to the tranquil reflections on the water’s surface as the sun dips below the horizon. Historical landmarks, including remnants of early settlement structures, whisper stories of the past. With opportunities for kayaking and fishing, these enchanting islands serve as a tranquil sanctuary for both recreation and reflection, making them an enticing destination for discerning travelers.
Nearby amenities
Various amenities surround this scenic lake, ensuring an enjoyable visit for all. Boating enthusiasts can take advantage of the Cachuma Lake Marina, which offers boat rentals, including pontoon and jet ski options, alongside a boat ramp and a fuel dock. For those interested in fishing, nearby shops like the Cachuma Lake Fishing Supply store provide bait and tackle, while designated fishing areas and a fishing pier enhance the experience. Outdoor recreational activities abound, including hiking trails and picnic areas equipped with BBQ grills. Visitors can also opt for lakeside dining at the upscale Lake Cachuma Restaurant, or grab a quick bite at local cafés. For overnight stays, campgrounds and vacation rentals offer diverse options, from primitive tent sites to cozy cabins. Accessibility is a priority, with ADA compliant paths and day-use parking available. Notably, convenience stores and a visitor information center are present to assist with supplies and local insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Cachuma Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
No, swimming is not allowed in Cachuma Lake. The lake has been a prohibited area for swimming, wading, and other body contact activities since its creation in 1953 because it serves as a local water source.
-
Cachuma Lake is a popular destination because it offers various outdoor activities like boating, fishing, and wildlife cruises. The lake is surrounded by the scenic Santa Ynez and San Rafael Mountains, and its mild temperatures and sunny skies make it a great spot for camping and nature exploration. Swimming is not allowed as it is a drinking water source.
-
You can catch largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, channel catfish, black crappie, bluegill, and redear sunfish in Cachuma Lake, California. The lake is also known for its large catfish, with a record catch of 32 3/4 pounds. It is annually stocked with rainbow trout and supports various fish populations in its diverse habitats.
-
There is no public beach at Cachuma Lake. You cannot swim in the lake because it is a drinking water source. The area is suitable for boating, fishing, and other activities, but swimming is not allowed.
-
Towns near Cachuma Lake include Solvang, Santa Ynez, and Los Olivos. Solvang is about 10.5 miles to the west, while Santa Ynez is approximately 7.25 miles away. Los Olivos is also nearby, situated in the heart of the Santa Ynez Valley.