Lake in fall

Don Pedro Lake Vacation Rentals

Don Pedro Lake

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Don Pedro Lake
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Why Rent On Don Pedro Lake

Often overshadowed by neighboring Yosemite, Don Pedro Lake is a massive Central Valley reservoir offering big-sky recreation without the crowds. Spanning over 13,000 acres and 160 miles of shoreline, it’s perfect for houseboating, jet skiing, and bass fishing. The Fleming Meadows and Blue Oaks recreation areas include full-service campgrounds, boat ramps, and marinas. Water temperatures are warm enough for swimming well into fall. Anglers prize the lake for king salmon, kokanee, and spotted bass. Don Pedro is managed by the Turlock Irrigation District, but its amenities and open terrain make it a family-friendly getaway. Nearby La Grange is a historic town with Gold Rush roots and local eats at Louie’s Place.

Best time to go
For an idyllic escape to Don Pedro Lake, visit in late spring, particularly May, when wildflowers bloom and days stretch sunny and warm. Enjoy fishing amidst tranquil waters, kayak beneath serene blue skies, and experience the annual Fishing Derby, a vibrant celebration of the lake's rich aquatic life while savoring the peaceful trails and fewer visitors.
Water Quality
The water in Don Pedro Lake exhibits a deep blue hue, with clarity often described as clear, offering visibility exceeding 4 feet.
Surface area (mi)
31.44
Max depth (ft)
500
Elevation (ft)
803.81
Shoreline length (mi)
160

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Swimming
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Marinas on Don Pedro Lake

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Don Pedro Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Don Pedro Lake. Swimming areas include the lake itself and a designated swimming lagoon at Fleming Meadows.Pets are not allowed in the swimming lagoon or picnic areas.

  • Don Pedro Lake is a popular destination because it offers a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, water sports, swimming, and camping along its 160 miles of shoreline. The lake also features picnic areas, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities, making it a diverse and engaging place to visit.

  • The health guidelines for eating fish caught from Don Pedro Lake in California vary by fish species and consumer age. Women ages 18-45 and children should avoid black bass and Sacramento Sucker, but can eat up to one serving per week of Channel Catfish, Common Carp, or sunfish. Older women and men can have more servings, with specific limits for each species.

  • Yes, there are beaches and picnic areas at Don Pedro Lake. Fleming Meadows Recreation Area has a 2-acre swimming lagoon with a sand bottom and a beach area, along with a large grass lawn and picnic areas. It also features a snack shack and other amenities.

  • Towns near Don Pedro Lake include Coulterville, Groveland, Jamestown, La Grange, and Snelling. These towns are located within a short driving distance and offer various amenities such as shopping, restaurants, and historic sites. They are situated in the surrounding counties of Mariposa, Merced, Stanislaus, and Tuolumne.