Planning Your Visit
Location
New Melones Lake is located on Highway 49, approximately 8 miles (13 km) north of Sonora and 6 miles (9 km) south of Angels Camp, California. Located in the Southern Mother Lode, it is within a short drive of other attractions such as Railtown 1897 in Jamestown, Calaveras Big Trees State Park, and only a 1-hour drive to Yosemite National Park. Interactive Map
The Bureau of Reclamation provides developed facilities at Glory Hole and Tuttletown Recreation Areas. Easy access is found off of Highway 49. For a detailed map of the New Melones Lake area click here:
Road Repairs
Road repairs are scheduled throughout the Glory Hole Recreation Area from April 1, 2008, through May 22, 2008. Expect Delays.
Facility
Each
year, approximately 800,000 visitors enjoy the various recreational
opportunities at New Melones Lake. Facilities include day use areas,
boat launch ramps, more than 300 campsites, hiking, biking and
equestrian trails, a visitor center & museum, and miles of
water based recreation for you and your family to enjoy.
New Melones Lake Marina offers boat rentals, camping supplies and snacks. For more information in the Marina call: (209) 785-3300 or visit their website. New Melones Lake has something to offer everyone!
Pets
Your pet is welcome to come along with you during your visit; however, whether in the campground or on a hiking trail, New Melones Lake requires the animal to be on a leash no longer than six feet (1.8 m) in length.
Weather
Located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, the weather is typical of California, with a dry summer and wet winter pattern.
Temperatures can reach 113 °F (45 °C) in the summer to a winter low of 14 °F (-10 °C). Annual precipitation varies from 20 inches (50 cm) in the vicinity of the New Melones Dam to 40 inches (101 cm) in the upper reaches of the reservoir. Most precipitation falls between November and April.
Here are the yearly temperature averages (°F) for the Sonora area:
Jan
|
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
|
Hi |
51 |
57 |
61 |
67 |
75 |
84 |
91 |
90 |
85 |
75 |
59 |
49 |
Lo |
31 |
33 |
35 |
38 |
44 |
49 |
54 |
54 |
51 |
43 |
36 |
31 |
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Year-Round Operation
New Melones Lake is open for year-round use. Some facilities have reduced hours or are closed between October 1 and March 31.
Park Visiting Hours
For your safety and security, the access roads to the Tuttletown and Glory Hole Recreation Areas are closed at night. Gate times vary by season as shown below:
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Close 11 p.m.; open 4 a.m. |
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Close 10 p.m.; open 4 a.m. |
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Close 9 p.m.; open 4 a.m. |
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Close 10 p.m.; open 4 a.m. |
Boat Launching
Boat launch ramps with courtesy docks are located in Glory Hole and Tuttletown Recreation Areas. Restrooms, paved parking and launch ramps are provided for your use. BOATING ADVISORY: Due to the changing levels of the lake throughout the year, boaters should be aware of submerged hazards on New Melones Lake.
The lake is generally fullest in early summer, and lowest in mid-winter. Conditions can change on a daily basis depending on river inflows, and outflows being released through the New Melones powerhouse.
Boaters must have the required safety equipment on board their boat such as lifejackets, ski flag, fire extinguisher etc. as required by the U.S. Coast Guard and California Department of Boating and Waterways. For more information on boating laws and requirements, visit their website. Safety equipment for boats can be purchased at New Melones Lake Marina and Glory Hole Sports.
Fees
Fees are charged for camping at New Melones Lake. There are currently no fees for boat launching or day use. Most campsites are available by reservation by calling: 1-877-444-6777 or visiting recreation.gov. See our Camping section for more information.
Fishing
One
of the “lures” of New Melones Lake is its superb fishing.
Water conditions sustain a variety of game fish to challenge anglers.
Throughout the year, a wide variety of special events also provide
fun and challenges for anglers of all ages and skill levels.
New Melones Lake holds up to 2.4 million acre-feet of water, provides 12,500 surface acres (5,058 ha) of water for recreational opportunities, and is surrounded by 100 miles (160 km) of shoreline.
For information on the current lake level, visit the California Department of Water Resources website.
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Fishing License Information - The California Fish and Game Commission requires that all individuals 16 years of age and older must purchase an annual license before fishing in California. The penalty for fishing without a proper license can be costly, so keep your license up to date, with you, and displayed properly at all times when fishing at New Melones Lake. If you do not have a fishing license, you can purchase one at the New Melones Lake Marina, Glory Hole Sports, Lake View Sports Supplies, Wal-Mart, and other local businesses.
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Daily Fishing Limits - Fishing is open year round at New Melones Lake. Specific daily limits are determined by the California Fish and Game Department and are adjusted annually to insure a sustainable population of each type of game fish. Copies of fishing regulations are available through the California Department of Fish and Game, by calling 916/227-2245, or via their website.
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Fish Species at New Melones Lake - Among the most popular game fish at New Melones Lake are the Largemouth Bass and Smallmouth Bass. These fish require skill and technique to catch, and the challenge of hooking a large one is thought to be the ultimate thrill for the angler. New Melones Lake has the habitats favored by bass and has been a “Glory Hole” for bass fisherman both in tournaments and recreational fishing.
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 |
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Black Crappie |
Bluegill |
Channel catfish |
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 |
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Female kokanee |
Largemouth bass |
Male kokanee |
 |
 |
|
Rainbow trout |
Smallmouth bass |
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Largemouth Bass/Smallmouth Bass - To fish for bass, it is important to know their habits, particularly what they eat. During the summer, bass usually spend their days and nights resting in the deeper water, but move to the shallow water to feed in the morning and evening. These areas have vegetation or other structures which attract the creatures which bass feed on. Anglers look for prime bass along rocky points and steep ridges, near floating vegetation, or in coves filled with trees. Excellent bass bait is available in the area.
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Rainbow Trout - Rainbow Trout fishing is great at New Melones Lake. Trout fishing in the lake is done by trolling the deep, colder waters; generally around 40 to 50 feet (12 to 15 m) deep near the area of the dam. Rainbows of up to 5 lbs (2 kg) have been landed, with average weights being 3 to 4 lbs (1.3 to 1.8 kg). Bank anglers often catch trout in the areas of Angel’s and Murphy’s Creeks.
- Adult Female Kokanee/Adult Male Kokanee - Kokanee Salmon are a real challenge to the sports angler. These beautiful fish are trolled for in 80 to 100 ft. (24 to 30 m) depths and are well worth the effort. They weigh in at 3 to 5 lbs (1.3 to 2 kg) and are found in the deeper, colder waters near the dam and spillway, Glory Hole Point and Rose Island.
In addition to game fish, New Melones Lake has several types of “pan fish.” These varieties are smaller in size and have higher daily limits.
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Crappie - Crappie are slightly larger than a bluegill, approximately 1.5 lbs (0.7 kg) and are popular because of their flakey white meat. Crappies run in schools, making them fun and easy to catch in large numbers. Crappie are best caught near vegetation overhangs or near fallen trees, and they’re a favorite with kids and shoreline fisherman.
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Bluegills are the smaller members of the same family, and can be fished for in the same manner.
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Catfish - Catfish in New Melones Lake are the Channel, White and the Bullhead Catfish. The first two are considered the best fish for eating.
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Channel Catfish - The Channel Catfish and the White Catfish are distinguished from the Bullhead most easily by their deeply forked tails. The Bullhead has a blunt tail. All of the catfish species in New Melones Lake can be fished for from shore, and grow to extraordinary sizes - 11 to 13 lb (5 to 8 kg) fish are not uncommon. Catfish are best caught in the evening, although many anglers prefer late evening and night fishing for cats’, who will strike at anything with a strong odor - just be prepared for a good fight with a strong fish.
New Melones Lake is the site for a number of fishing tournaments throughout the summer. To obtain a special use permit for a fishing tournament, call: (209) 536-9094. The Bureau of Reclamation hosts the C.A.S.T. Festival (“Catch a Special Thrill”) for Kids every June and other fishing related special programs throughout the year. Fishing information and maps are available at the visitor center.
Hiking & Biking Trails
New Melones Lake has an extensive hiking and biking trail system for visitor use, providing opportunities to explore the area’s natural, geologic and cultural resources. Currently, the majority of trails have been developed within the Glory Hole Recreation Area. Plans are in development for a complementary system of trails in the Tuttletown Recreation Area.
Outlying area hiking trails provide visitors with still more challenging opportunities to view some of the unique natural and cultural features of the region including Natural Bridges, the Peoria Wildlife Management Area, Camp Nine, and Table Mountain. Visitors can stop by the visitor center on Highway 49 for detailed maps and trail descriptions.
- Location Map of the trails at New Melones Lake (pdf - 5.1 MB
During your hike or bike ride, we ask you to observe "Leave No Trace" principles. For more information on the Leave No Trace program, visit their website.
Trail Safety
We recommend you observe the following safety tips:
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Never hike alone. Hiking with a partner will allow you to have assistance in case of an emergency.
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Take plenty of water. Stay hydrated - always drink water before you feel thirsty. New Melones Lake is located in a very hot, dry climate and it is very easy to become dehydrated quickly.
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Pace yourself. Due to the climate, the summer temperatures can exceed 100 ºF, and you can be overcome by the heat quickly. Plan your hike for the cooler morning hours whenever possible.
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Be aware of and respect wildlife. New Melones Lake is home to a great deal of wildlife including mountain lions, rattlesnakes, and ticks.
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Mountain lions hunt primarily in the late evening (twilight). Avoid hiking or using game trails, hiking alone or traveling through high grass during twilight and into the night.
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Rattlesnakes prefer the shade during the hot daylight hours, and rock or paved surfaces during the cooler evening hours. Give them the “right of way” and a take a wide path around them. They are not normally aggressive, but will attack if provoked or feel trapped. They can strike from a significant distance.
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Tick bites can be prevented by the use of insect repellents designed to repel ticks or by wearing long pants and long sleeved shirts when hiking. When returning from a hike, check yourself (and your pets) carefully for ticks. Remove ticks carefully and do not leave mouth parts. While it is still uncommon, ticks in this area have been found to carry Lyme disease.
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Lets must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet (1.8 m) in length at all times while at New Melones Lake. This is for the protection of your dog as well as for the convenience, safety and courtesy of others.
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Let someone know where you are going and when to expect you back.
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If you are overdue, have your party contact a New Melones ranger in person or by calling (209) 536-9094 ext. 0 from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. After hours, for Glory Hole Recreation Area contact the Calaveras County Sheriff’s Dispatcher at (209) 754-6500. For the Tuttletown Recreation Area, contact the Tuolumne County Sheriff’s Dispatcher at (209) 533-5815. In case of an emergency, dial 9-1-1.
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Trail Descriptions
Difficulty ratings
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Easy – Less than 2 miles (3.2 km) in length with no more than 200 ft (61 m) of elevation change.
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Moderate – More than 2 miles (3.2 km) in length or an elevation change between 200 – 400 ft (61 – 122 m).
- Challenging – More than 4 miles (6.4 km) in length or an elevation change of more than 400 ft (122 m).
Access
Most parking areas and trailheads are open year round; however, there are seasonal closures between October 1 and March 31. Buck Brush Day Use Area is closed to vehicle traffic during this period.
Tuttletown Recreation Area
Heron Point: Parking and the trailhead are located at the Heron Point Day Use Area, Tuttletown Recreation Area. This easy, 1.7 mile (2.7 km) trail with views of New Melones Lake ends near campsite 23 in the Acorn Campground. The day use area has picnic tables and flush restrooms, but no drinking water.
Click here for a map of the Heron Point trail (pdf - 750 KB)
Other and Outlying Recreation Areas
Natural Bridges: Parking and the trailhead are located on Parrotts Ferry Road approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) north of Columbia. There is limited parking available at the trailhead. There are vault toilets at the parking area, but no drinking water. This moderate, 0.7 mile (1.1 km) trail leads to Natural Bridges, which is a unique series of caves with Coyote Creek running through them. Natural Bridges is an outstanding but sensitive geologic resource at New Melones Lake. Defacing the resources not only spoils the experience for others, but it is against the law. Please help to protect this unique resource by reporting vandalism and preserving the natural features.
- At New Melones Lake, you may take your pet (on a leash) on most trails. In order to protect this unique resource, pets are not permitted on the Natural Bridges trail.
Natural Bridges trail Map (pdf - 1.0 MB
Norwegian Gulch: Parking and the trailhead are located at the New Melones Lake Visitor Center and Museum, 1/4 mile (0.4 km) south of the Stevenot Stanislaus River Bridge on Highway 49. The parking lot opens to the public at approximately 8:00 a.m. The Visitor Center and Museum includes picnic tables, flush toilets, and drinking water. This easy, 1/2 mile (0.8 km) trail offers views of New Melones Lake.
Norwegian Gulch trail Map (pdf - 1.0 MB)
Table Mountain: Parking and the trailhead are located at the end of Shell Road. At the end of the paved (county-maintained) portion, is a gated road for public access that crosses through private property. Please be respectful of the private property owners in using this road. Shell Road is an unimproved dirt road, recommended for high clearance vehicles, and during the winter it may require the use of a four wheel drive vehicle. There are several unlocked gates along this road. Please respect the private property owners by keeping the gates closed. Vault toilets are located near the trailhead, but no drinking water. From the trailhead located past the second unlocked gate, this is a challenging 1/2 mile (0.8 km) trail to the base of Table Mountain that involves some rock scrambling across lava rocks.
- Table Mountain Trail Map (pdf -1.3 MB)
Glory Hole Recreation Area
Carson Creek: Parking and the upper trailhead are located along the Glory Hole access road (Whittle Ranch Road), approximately 1/4 mile (0.4 km) west of the Glory Hole entrance station. A second access point for the lower trailhead is located at the junction of Angels Creek access road and Whittle Ranch Road. There are portable restrooms at both trailheads. No drinking water is available at the upper trailhead. This moderate, 2.3 mile (3.7 km) trail offers views of New Melones Lake.
Frontier: Parking and the trailhead are located at the Buck Brush Day Use Area and at the junction of the Angels Creek access road and Whittle Ranch Road. There are restrooms at both trailheads, but no drinking water. This moderate, 2 mile (3.2 km) trail runs parallel to the Angels Creek access road and provides hikers and mountain bikers with a trail connecting Glory Hole’s southern trails with its northern trails.
Tower Climb: Parking and the trailhead are located along the Glory Hole access road, approximately 1/4 mile (0.4 km) west of the Glory Hole entrance station. There is a portable restroom at the trailhead, but no drinking water. This trail is popular with mountain bikes. It is a challenging trail that is 1.3 miles (2.1 km) in length with several switchbacks and a 400 ft (122 m) elevation change.
Gold Rush: Parking and the trailhead are located along the Buck Brush Day Use Area and at the junction of Angels Creek access road and the Whittle Ranch Road. There are restrooms at the trailhead, but no drinking water. This moderate, 2.2 mile (3.5 km) trail ends near campsite 70 in Ironhorse Campground.
Angels Creek: Parking and the trailhead are located at the Buck Brush Day Use Area and at the Angels Creek boat launch parking. Picnic tables, flush toilets and drinking water are located at the Angels Creek launch ramp. Flush toilets are also located at the Buck Brush Day Use Area. This moderate, 2.5 mile (4.0 km) trail provides views of New Melones Lake.
Buck Brush Loop: Parking and the trailhead are located at the Buck Brush Day Use Area. Flush toilets and drinking water are available. This easy, 1.3 mile (2.1 km) trail provides views of New Melones Lake and access to fishing along the shoreline.
Glory Hole Recreation Area Trail Map (pdf - 1.5 MB)
Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is permitted in the Peoria Wildlife Management Area (PWMA). The PWMA covers approximately 2,500 acres (1,100 ha) and is located on the southwest side of New Melones Lake. It was purchased specifically as mitigation for wildlife habitat loss as a result of construction of the New Melones Dam and Reservoir.
There is no motorized access into the area; however, it is used for hiking, sightseeing, wildlife viewing, rock climbing, mountain biking, horseback riding, and hunting (as regulated by the California Department of Fish and Game). Trails through this area are made up of old dirt roads, trails, and railroad beds.
To access the Peoria Wildlife Management Area, from Highway 108, take O’Byrnes Ferry Road (E15) approximately 1/2 mile (0.8 km) to Peoria Flat Road (right turn). Continue 2.5 miles (4 km) to the entrance of the CDF Baseline Camp. The parking lot and staging area are on the right side of the road. A portable toilet is provided; however, there is no drinking water available. Water for horses is available.
- Peoria Wildlife Area map (pdf - 154 KB)
For More Information
Please call New Melones Lake at:
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209/536-9094 Monday through Friday (except federal holidays) between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. or
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209/536-9543 Wednesday through Sunday (except winter federal holidays) between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
April 2, 2008