Overview

Just off Interstate 80, high in the Sierras, you’ll find a crystal clear reservoir surrounded by pines and providing recreational opportunities galore. If on a Lake Tahoe vacation, this is an ideal side trip to find adventures in the Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Location & Information

From Truckee, California (not far from Lake Tahoe), take Interstate 80 West to the Yuba Gap exit. Head south to the intersection with Lake Valley Road and turn right. After one mile, you come to another intersection and you make a left on Forest Road 19. This dirt road will take you to the parking area for the Silver Tip Picnic Area and Boat Launch.

Although the lake is drawn down by the late summer season, the best times to come are from May through October.

Contact information:
PG&E Recreation
916-386-5164
http://www.pge.com/recreation

Activities

Besides watching the birds and wildlife along the shores of Lake Valley Reservoir, there are many other activities to enjoy.

• Boating
  You’ll find a boat ramp at the Silver Tip Picnic Area and won’t have to pay a fee to launch. Since surrounding hills protect the reservoir, there are no high winds, making this lake the perfect place to enjoy some paddling. Explore the inlets around the shoreline.
• Fishing
  Find excellent fishing from kayaks or canoes on the reservoir. You’ll catch brown bullheads and rainbows.
• Picnicking
  The picnic area has 10 picnic sites to enjoy. It’s a great place to spread a small feast and eat while the sun reflects off the lake.
• Camping
  There are 35 sites at the campground, and fees are required. This campground is open from late June through Labor Day.

Fun Facts

Lake Valley Reservoir is on the North Fork of the American River. It sits at an elevation of 5,840 feet and when full, holds 8,000 acre-feet of water.