Although the state is dryly progressing through the fourth year of one of the most severe droughts on record, Don Pedro Recreation Agency assures that there is still plenty of water to enjoy at Don Pedro Lake.

Even though this year’s water level is understandably lower than it has been in years, DPRA announced that there is still 6,700 acres of water surface area available at the lake for water and other outdoor activities, including boating, waterskiing, wakeboarding, fishing, swimming, camping and hiking.  

 “Despite the drought and lower water levels, there’s still plenty of water in Don Pedro for boating and water play activities for the whole family,” said Calvin Curtin, spokesperson of Turlock Irrigation District, which sponsors DPRA along with Modesto Irrigation District and the City and County of San Francisco.

“Don Pedro is only an hour’s drive from Turlock or Modesto, has low use fees, and offers visitors a chance to enjoy the outdoors and spend time together,” continued Curtin.

Fleming Meadows offers the popular two-acre swimming lagoon complete with picnic area and onsite Snack Shack. The Trading Post store and all camping areas are also open for summer and the concrete boat launch will be open the entire year.

Moccasin Point provides visitors will full hook-up and tent campsites. Shallow draft vessels will be able to launch at an alternative, low-water launch at Moccasin Point until approximately mid-June. Due to low water conditions, Moccasin Point is the perfect spot for wading and trout fishing next to the recreation area. Additionally, a camp store with ice, snacks, drinks and firewood will be open on weekends to serve campers.

Blue Oaks provides partial hook-up campsites, as well the group camp facility that will be open for summer. Tent campsites will be available for holiday weekends and at other times as needed. Although the Blue Oaks boat launch is closed, boat launching is still possible at Fleming Meadows just down the road.

In addition to summer long activities, Lake Don Pedro Marina will also host National Marina Day on June 13 to remind visitors of all the recreational fun that is still possible at Don Pedro, despite the challenges presented to the region in recent years because of the drought. 

Activities throughout National Marina Day include boating and fishing oriented booths, shoreline cleanup activities, rental houseboat open house, and half-price small boat rentals. Prizes, food, and kids activities will also be made available.

Unfortunately, due to low water levels and reduced fallout zone, the Fourth of July Fireworks Show has been cancelled again this year.

For more information, visit donpedrolake.com.