Lake Berryessa
NAPA, Calif. – The Bureau of Reclamation adjusted operating hours at Lake Berryessa beginning September 8, as part of its seasonal transition. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead for changes to facility access, boating regulations, and recreation services.
Dufer Point Visitor Center
- Open weekends and holidays, Noon to 3 p.m.
- America the Beautiful Interagency Passes available by appointment on weekdays and during open hours on weekends
Oak Shores Day Use Area
- South End: Open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- North End: Closed for the season starting October 1
- Parking fees must be paid and receipts displayed on dashboards
- Group Reservations - Oak Shores offers four large shade shelters at Acorn Beach and Foxtail Flat. Reservations for groups of up to 50 people are available for $25 per shelter, per day at Recreation.gov. For larger gatherings, contact the Park Ranger Office at 707-905-7896.
Smittle Creek and Eticuera Day Use Areas
- Open year-round for wildlife viewing, picnicking, and hand-launch watercraft
- Smittle Creek Trail remains open and accessible from two trailheads:
- Smittle Creek Day Use Area (year-round)
- Coyote Knolls parking lot (summer only)
- Starting September 8, parking lot gates will close at 5 p.m.
Capell Cove Boat Launch
- Closed indefinitely due to staffing.
Boating and Mussel Prevention
- 30-Day Quarantine Requirement:
Beginning November 2024, all trailered vessels must complete a free 30-day quarantine before launching, unless they:- Already have a Lake Berryessa green seal
- Provide proof of decontamination
- Use non-petroleum-powered or non-trailered vessels
- Learn more at the Solano County Water Agency Mussel Prevention Program and Reclamations website at: https://www.usbr.gov/mp/golden-mussels.html
Tip: Boaters should confirm ramp closing times with operators to avoid delays or a second quarantine period.
Concession-Operated Facilities
Alternative recreation opportunities, including boat launching, are available at concession-operated sites:
- Markley Cove Resort: markleycove.com | 707-966-2134
- Pleasure Cove Marina: goberryessa.com | 707-966-9600
- Steele Canyon Recreation Area: campsteelecanyon.com | 707-966-9410
- Spanish Flat Recreation Area: campspanishflat.com | 707-966-0200
- Putah Canyon Recreation Area: royalelkparkmanagement.com | 707-966-9051
For more information about activities, fees, maps, and updates, visit the Lake Berryessa Website, call 707-905-7896, or email BOR-Berryessa@usbr.gov.
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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits.
