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Nestled in a deep gorge in El Dorado County,
Slab Creek Reservoir is a hidden gem for
paddling enthusiasts. Only an hour's drive
from Sacramento, this long, narrow reservoir
offers a peaceful, motorless environment
perfect for flat-water paddling. The diverse
landscape, with its towering granite walls,
groves of pine, and occasional cascading
waterfalls, provides stunning scenery and
excellent photographic opportunities.
The reservoir's eastern put-in at Forebay
Road is affected by water levels and inflows
controlled by SMUD for power generation.
During low water, you may need to portage
your kayak across a shallow creek bed to
reach the water, so it's best to launch when
levels are high. Expect to paddle against
afternoon winds and the current on the
return trip.
The steep, poison oak-covered terrain makes
the shoreline largely inaccessible, but the
reservoir offers great fishing opportunities
from your kayak. Anglers can reel in rainbow
and brown trout, pike minnow, and bass, with
the feisty pike minnow providing an
especially exciting catch.
Overall, Slab Creek Reservoir is a fabulous,
 yet
little-known, paddling destination that
offers a peaceful, scenic respite just a
short drive from Sacramento.
Map of Slab Creek Reservoir
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