Nestled between Blue Ridge and Cedar Roughs, east of the Napa Valley, Lake Berryessa offers year-round recreation opportunities. Lake Berryessa's water reaches temperatures of up to 75 degrees in the summer, making it an ideal place for water sports. Anglers enjoy fishing for both cold and warm water species, such as rainbow trout, bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. The Bureau of Reclamation provides two large day use areas (Oak Shores and Smittle Creek), Capell Cove launch ramp, and many smaller dispersed day use areas. There are Recreation Areas around the lake that are managed by concessionaires under contract with Reclamation and provide camping, day use and boating facilities. Contact the concession areas directly for information about amenities.
This location is available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Visitors are required to physically arrive on-site to purchase an Activity Pass. Once on-site, follow the posted instructions and pay for your Activity Pass by scanning the QR code using the Recreation.gov mobile app. Download and sign into the free Recreation.gov mobile app on Android or iOS prior to your arrival as some remote areas have limited cellular service: https://www.recreation.gov/mobile-app
Day Use pass is valid for day use fees only at Lake Berryessa specific day use areas and is valid for the day of purchase during park operating hours.
Pass admits pass holder and occupants of a single, private, non-commercial vehicle, OR two motorcycles, OR pass holder and three persons (16 and older) for walk-in use.
Pass is non-transferable, non-refundable, and non-replaceable.
The Boat Ramp pass is valid for boat launch and day use fees only at Lake Berryessa - Capell Boat Ramp and Day Use Area and is valid for the day of purchase during park operating hours.