Don Pedro Lake is one of California's most popular water recreation destinations, attracting over half a million visitors annually to enjoy activities like fishing, paddling, boating, and camping in the scenic Sierra Nevada foothills.

Recreational paddlers at Don Pedro Lake should be prepared for the possibility of gusty winds, which are common in this area. To avoid these conditions, it's advisable to paddle earlier in the morning or stay close to the shoreline, where the impact of the wind is reduced. This will also help paddlers avoid the heavy boat traffic on the open lake. Along the way, paddlers can enjoy ample opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife and birds.

Don Pedro Lake offers excellent fishing for trout, salmon, black bass, catfish, bluegill, and even smallmouth or spotted bass. Kayak fishing is a particularly popular way to access the lake's abundant fish populations.

The region surrounding Don Pedro Lake is teeming with wildlife, including deer, bears, and other critters that can be spotted while canoeing, paddleboarding, or kayaking through the majestic landscape.

Map of Don Pedro Lake