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Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Berryessa

Note: see this map for locations mentioned below.

The resorts on the main lake are currently (2010) being rebuilt. For the latest information on services (camping, RV sites, boat launch) available at the resorts on the main lake, see the Pensus website. Pleasure Cove and Markley Resorts between the main lake and the dam remain open.

Where are Picnic and Swimming Facilities Available for Day Use?

  1. The main day use area is Oak Shores which has full picnic and swimming facilities. Free.
  2. Just north of Oak Shores, the Smittle Creek Day Use Area also has a picnic area.
  3. Along the north shore between Putah Creek and Etecuera Creek are pullouts with trails down to the water. There is a toilet at the Etecuera Day Use Area.
  4. At the intersection of Knoxville and Pope Canyon Roads is a large parking lot with a toilet. Trails lead from the lot to the water.
  5. Off Hwy. 128 at Markley Cove are pullouts with trails down to the water. There are picnic tables and several portable toilets.
  6. Picnicing is available at the public Capell Boat Launch and at a pullout on Knoxville Road about a mile west of Capell.
  7. There are picnic areas behind and below the Visitor's Center (located at Reclamation Headquarters on the map).

What Camping is Available?

Camping is available at Pleasure Cove Resort and in Oak Shores.

Where are the Hiking Trails?

See the Berryessa Trail and Paddle Guide for detailed trail descriptions.

What Restaurants and Stores are Available?

  1. Spanish Flat Village has a restaurant and a small store with a deli.
  2. There is a classic bar plus a small store and a deli at Turtle Rock.
  3. Markley and Pleasure Cove Resorts have small stores.

Are there Overnight Cabins or Motels?

These are available in Pleasure Cove and Markley Resorts.

Where is a Public Boat Launch?

  1. The free public boat ramp with parking is at Capell Cove.
  2. Markley and Pleasure Cove Resorts have boat launches and parking with a launch fee.

Is there a Gas Station?

There are no gas stations at the Lake. Fill your gas tank before driving to the lake.

Where are the RV Spots?

RV spots are available in Pleasure Cove and Oak Shores.

What Areas are Suitable for Paddling?

See the Berryessa Trail and Paddle Guide for a complete description of paddling opportunities at the lake.

Who Rents Paddle Craft?

No rentals are available at the lake.

What Further Visitor Information is Available?

  1. Visit the Visitor's Center, located on Knoxville Road (at Reclamation Headquarters on the map).
  2. Call the Bureau during the week at 707-966-2111 to request an information package.
  3. Bureau of Reclamation Website for Lake Berryessa
  4. Berryessa Trail and Paddle Guide, an online guide to hiking and paddling at Lake Berryessa.

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