Water Activities
There’s no lack of options for water sports enthusiasts on the Stanislaus National Forest. With the Tuolumne River, one of the Top 5 white water rafting areas in the nation on the Groveland side of the Forest, Beardsley lake for the those looking for something more subdued or a cool dip in our upper elevation lakes on the Calaveras side, there’s something for everyone.
Boating - Motorized
The Stanislaus National Forest allows motorized boating on many of its lakes and rivers, with boat ramps and launching piers available at some locations, though regulations and restrictions vary by area.
Other info
Regulations and restrictions
- Permits: Some areas may require special use permits issued by the Forest Service.
- Motor Types: Some areas may limit motorized boating to electric motors only.
- Season: Some areas may have seasonal restrictions on motorized boating.
Safety
- Weather Conditions: Use caution around piers/launches, shorelines, and portages, especially during high water levels or inclement weather.
- Hazards: Be aware of potential hazards such as fallen trees and other debris.
Boating - Non-Motorized
Floating or paddling through the forests is the perfect way to view wildlife and take in the beauty of riparian vegetation. During spring flows, kayaking and canoeing opportunities are the best in many of our waterways.
General information
The Forest Service permits non-motorized boating, including activities like canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, on many of its waterways. This typically includes canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and other human-powered vessels. Regulations can vary significantly by forest and specific water body, so it's crucial to check with the local Forest Service office for the most up-to-date information.
Swimming
Swimming can be a fun way to cool off on a hot day, but make sure you follow safety guidelines. Many national forest swimming areas will not have designated lifeguards on duty.
- Learn to swim.
- Designate a responsible adult to supervise children.
- Don’t swim alone. It is always safer to swim with a buddy.
- Learn CPR.
- Look before you leap. Always check water conditions and depth before jumping or swimming. Underwater conditions can change quickly, putting hazards like tree branches or rocks in your path that were not there before.
- Beware diving into any natural body of water. It is never safe to jump from rock cliffs, ledges, and man-made structures.
- Swim at designated swimming beaches. Though there is no lifeguard on duty, each has a life-saving ring and frequently tested water quality.
- Do not recreate in boat ramps/launches. Swim and play in designated swim beaches.
Streams and lakes can contain harmful germs, like Cryptosporidium and Giardia, and may not be monitored for water quality for swimming. Swimming or playing in streams or lakes or drinking untreated water can put you at risk for waterborne illness or infection. Follow these safety guidelines to avoid water-borne diseases.
- Treat all water taken from natural sources like springs, streams, or lakes. Boil water for 1 minute or use chemical disinfectants (such as iodine or chlorine) to destroy viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Use a water filter to remove parasites.
- Protect lakes and streams from contamination. Take bathroom breaks and bury any human waste 8 inches deep, at least 200 feet from bodies of water, and downstream from water collection sites.
- Avoid recreating in discolored or cloudy water, water that smells bad, or with pipes draining in or around it. These are potential warnings that there are more disease-causing germs in the water than usual.
- Stay out the water if you have open cuts or wounds.
- Wash your hands after recreating in natural bodies of water before handling food.
Search for Water Activities Opportunities
Beardsley Reservoir
Campgrounds - Highway 120 Corridor
Cherry Creek Put-in
Cherry Lake
Cherry Lake Boat Launch
Cherry Valley Campground
Day Use Areas - Highway 108 Corridor
Diana Pools/Diana Falls
Donnell Reservoir
Highland Lakes
