Information not accurate?
Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Perched at nearly 6,400 feet in El Dorado County, Loon Lake is an alpine reservoir surrounded by granite peaks and dense forest. Formed by the Loon Lake Dam as part of the Upper American River Project, it holds 76,200 acre-feet of water and is fed by the Buck-Loon Tunnel. Though lesser-known than nearby Union Valley Reservoir, Loon Lake is a gem for solitude seekers and adventurers. The Loon Lake Campground offers direct access to kayaking, sailing, and trout fishing. The Pleasant Lake Arm is a quiet stretch perfect for paddleboards and reflection. In winter, nearby Loon Lake Chalet becomes a snow play hub. With limited crowds and sweeping Sierra vistas, this lake is pure backcountry bliss.
- Surface area (mi)
- 3.67
- Max depth (ft)
- 56
- Elevation (ft)
- 6404.2
- Shoreline length (mi)
- 17.58
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Fishing
- Freshwater Fishing
- Jet Skiing
- Waterskiing
Information not accurate?
Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Marinas on Loon Lake
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Loon 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 Loon Lake. The lake has a designated swimming area and is part of the recreational activities available at the campground.
-
Loon Lake is a popular destination because it offers various outdoor activities. In Oregon, it provides excellent boating, waterskiing, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and swimming opportunities, along with sandy beaches. In other locations, such as Washington, it features attractions like a craft distillery and spa, as well as boat and jet ski rentals.
-
Ice fishing is not allowed at Loon Lake in California due to fluctuating water levels. Anglers should check the fishing regulations at the Department of Fish and Wildlife website for the most current information.
-
There is no public beach at Loon Lake, but there is a boat launch. The lake has a sandy bottom near the boat ramp where you can wade out, but it does not have a traditional beach area.
-
Towns near Loon Lake, New York, include Plattsburgh, NY, and Burlington, VT. These towns are within a 49-mile radius of Loon Lake. For Loon Lake in Washington, nearby towns are Spokane, WA, and Post Falls, ID. In California, towns like Placerville and El Dorado Hills are near Loon Lake.
