The Bureau of Reclamation has announced new operating hours at Lake Berryessa for the summer beginning May 5.
Dufer Point Visitor Center
The Dufer Point Visitor Center will be open noon to 3 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekends and holidays.
Oak Shores Day Use Area
The north end of Oak Shores will reopen for day use from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays only.
South Oak Shore will be open every day from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Oak Shores Day Use Area offers six large group shade shelters at Acorn Beach, Foxtail Flat, and Coyote Beach.
Group shelters can be reserved for groups of up to 50 for $25, per shelter per day.
For more information, or to organize a larger event, contact the Lake Berryessa Park Ranger Office at 707-966-2111, ext. 113.
Smittle Creek and Eticuera Day Use Areas
Smittle Creek and Eticuera Day Use Areas will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. for wildlife watching, picnicking and hand launching watercraft. The Smittle Creek Trail is open and can be accessed from two trailheads: the Smittle Creek Day Use Area, available throughout the year, and the Coyote Knolls parking lot in Oak Shores during the summer.
Capell Cove Boat Launch
The Capell Cove Boat Launch is open from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily throughout the year.
Concession Areas
Markley Cove Resort, Pleasure Cove Marina, Steele Canyon Recreation Area, Putah Canyon, and Spanish Flat offer a variety of recreation services, including boat launching, and are alternatives to Oak Shores and Capell Cove.
For information regarding services offered at concession-operated facilities, launch fees or to make reservations, call the concessions or visit their websites:
· Markley Cove, 707-966-2134
· Pleasure Cove Marina, 707-966-9600
· Steele Canyon Recreation Area, 707-966-9410
· Spanish Flat Recreation Area, 707-966-0200
· Putah Canyon Recreation Area, 707-966-9051
Tips for a Safe Visit
· No ash-generating fire, including charcoal barbeques, are permitted lake-wide per Napa County ordinances.
· Ensure that parking and launch fees are paid, and receipts are displayed on vehicle dashboard. America the Beautiful Interagency Passes are available at the Dufer Point Visitor Center by appointment during the week or on weekends between 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
· As of January 2024, boaters 60 years of age and under are required to possess a valid vessel operator card. Boaters may apply for the $10 card from the California Department of Boating and Waterways.
· All Coast Guard and State of California rules for navigation and boat operation apply and are strictly enforced by the Napa County Sheriff’s Office. For more information on preparing for a successful day on the water, read the Division of Boating and Waterways ABCs of California Boating.
For information on activities, fees, directions, pet restrictions or other questions, visit the Lake Berryessa website or call the visitor center at 707-966-2111, ext. 113 or the Lake Berryessa Administration Office at 707-966-2111.
