Camp and Kayak at Utica Reservoir in Stanislaus National Forest

Sleeper Hit

Camp and Kayak at Utica Reservoir in Stanislaus National Forest

Camp and Kayak at Utica Reservoir in Stanislaus National Forest

It’s all about the water at Utica Reservoir in Stanislaus National Forest, a High Sierra reservoir with “fingers” for exploring by kayak, and with natural pools with large granite slabs that are ideal for lounging.

Campsites here are perfect for access to easy kayak or canoe launching (or pool toy if that’s more your speed). And the scenery? Sierra spectacular! You’re at 6,800 feet in a granite basin surrounded by red fir and lodgepole pines. We recommend enjoying a moonlight paddle post-dinner.

Getting a campsite at Utica Reservoir in the height of summer can be challenging. The designated campgrounds, Sand Flat and Rocky Point, have 23 total tent camping sites (not recommended for RVs). It’s all on a first-come, first-served basis; they don’t take reservations.

Camp and Kayak at Utica Reservoir in Stanislaus National Forest

If that doesn’t work out, there is dispersed camping available around the lake. It’s popular to kayak or canoe around Utica Reservoir and disperse-camp away from others to get a real primitive type of camping experience. One very important note: be sure to check the Stanislaus National Forest website for all campfire restrictions, as they change with conditions, and it's absolutely essential to follow the restrictions.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST: In the episode "When the Smoke Clears" Weekend Sherpa co-founders discuss their camping and kayak trip to Utica Reservoir.

Camp and Kayak at Utica Reservoir in Stanislaus National Forest

You have to bring your own water, pack out your trash, and practice “leave no trace" camping. (More info on dispersed camping in Stanislaus National Forest.)

Utica Reservoir is located off of Hwy. 4 in Stanislaus National Forest about 50 miles east of Angels Camp (map). From Hwy. 4 turn on to Spicer Reservoir Rd. and go 8 miles. Then turn left onto 7N75 and follow it about 1.5 miles to the reservoir. Designated campsites at Utica Reservoir are first-come first-served. There is also dispersed camping around the lake. Please be self-reliant and bring your own soap, toilet paper, hand sanitizer and drinking water. IMPORTANT: Check ahead for campfire restrictions. *When allowed, campfires are only permitted in the designated campsites at the developed campgrounds, NOT in dispersed camping, which includes any island or shoreline (stoves only for these places, and you need a permit for that as well, and for lantern use). Permit info.

If you have additional questions, it's best to call the Stanislaus Ranger Station: (209) 795-1381.

Dog-friendly!

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories
  1. Afternoon on the Island

    What is it about tiny islands in the middle of lakes? There’s something that just draws you in. It’s even more fun when getting there is half the adventure because you have to reach it by canoe, kayak, paddleboat, or a ranger-guided boat tour!

    View
  2. Sponsored

    Chase Fall Colors & Family Fun in Reno Tahoe

    Ready to Reno? We’re so with you! Reno Tahoe is the ultimate urban basecamp for gathering family and friends for all kinds of fall fun and festivities.

    View
  3. This Is Paradise

    Granite mountain-scape, superb sunset views, crystal lakes, and shoreline campsites … the trip to Paradise Lake in Tahoe National Forest lives up to its idyllic name.

    View
  4. Aloha from California

    Say Aloha without leaving California with a 7-mile out-and-back hiking adventure to Lake Aloha in El Dorado National Forest. You can also camp here, a premier place for stargazing.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories
  1. Walking the Los Angeles River Trail Through Frogtown

    Frogtown Strutter’s Stroll

    Don’t go dismissing the Los Angeles River as merely a 51-mile concrete channel. It’s a genuine urban artery that links real neighborhoods, and its riverside bike/ped paths endear i

    View
  2. Coming Up Roses

    Looking to spice up your hiking life? Give your partner a rose—Mount Rose! The 10-mile out-and-back peak hike goes up to one of the grandest views in all of Lake Tahoe. Get ready f

    View
  3. Underground Garden

    Looking to escape the summer heat? Head to Fresno and discover its cool secret: the Forestiere Underground Gardens–an enchanting garden and architecture oasis like no other.

    View
  4. Sequoia Re-opens Crystal Cave

    Step inside Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Park's hidden world by visiting the newly re-opened Crystal Cave—the only cave in the parks open to the public. Closed for four years, this rare marble karst cavern is welcoming visitors once again, but only through the summer season!

    View