The Lafayette Reservoir is located off Mt. Diablo Boulevard on the west end of Lafayette. Completed in 1933 the reservoir is a standby supply of drinking water for East Bay Municipal Utility District (EBMUD) customers. The 925-acre site with 1.4 billion gallon reservoir was opened to public recreation in 1966 with hiking, fishing, boating and picnicking.

Fishing is $3 per day at the reservoir and the usual state license requirements and bait restrictions apply. The State Department of Fish and Game plants many thousand trout each year joining bluegill, black bass, black crappie and several kinds of catfish.

Privately owned rowboats, canoes, kayaks and sailboats are allowed at the reservoir. There is a fee for boat registration. In addition, there are rowboats and pedal boats for rent at the activity center on an hourly, half-day, or all-day basis.

The recreation area is also open for bicyclists, (and for those who prefer roller skates, roller blades and scooters) on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon until closing and on Sundays from opening until 11:00 a.m. on the paved Lakeside Trail (2.7 miles) and roads.

Surrounding the reservoir are 135 picnic tables and barbeques to accommodate families and small groups. Most picnic areas are located near the dam; others are scattered around the reservoir and are accessible by boat or on foot. Two areas are set aside for large groups of up to 50 or 250 people. There is a prepaid reservation fee required. The reservation fee will be refunded if 30 days advance notice of cancellation is received.

Open fires and barbeques outside of developed areas are not allowed.

There is a $6.00 daily entrance fee. Short term (metered) parking is $.50 per 1/2 hour - 2 hour maximum. Annual gate card is $100, $50 for seniors (over 62 years), and $50 for disabled. The area is open year-round during daylight hours. Opening and closing times are posted at the gate.

For a complete list of fees, please click here Fee Schedule

For further information, call the reservoir at 284-9669 or visit either the Reservoir or Lafayette Parks and Recreation Dept websites.