Modesto Reservoir Regional Park

Popular with residents of Modesto and Turlock, this park is surprisingly close to Merced and offers a lot of recreational opportunities and facilities.

Location

Reservoir Road (accessed from Highway 132) between Waterford and La Grange.

Distance from Merced: 37 miles

Distance from Los Banos: 51 miles

Operating authority: Stanislaus County Parks and Recreation

Surface area of lake: 2,800 acres

Facilities and activities

• Boat ramp, marina

• Concessions booth

• Flush restrooms

• Drinking fountains

• Campgrounds with BBQ grills/fire rings, RV hookups

• Picnic areas with tables, shelters, and BBQ grills

• Group picnic areas and shelters

• Swimming area

• Wildlife viewing area

• Archery range

• Radio-control airplane flying

• Dogs allowed? No

• Horses allowed? No

• Hunting allowed? Yes

• Fish species: Bass, trout

• Boat rentals: No

Website:  http://www.co.stanislaus.ca.us/er/parks/

Recreation organizations

The Mid-Valley Water Ski Club holds events throughout the year for people of all ages and abilities. http://www.midvalleywaterskiclub.com/ for more information.

The Yahi Bowmen Archery Club operates the reservoir’s archery range. Guests are welcome and regularly-scheduled activities are offered for people of all ages and abilities. https://www.facebook.com/YahiBowmenModesto   for more information.