Santa Margarita Lake

Santa Margarita Lake Regional Park is a nature lover's retreat. Thousands of acres of unspoiled open space, the park is home to countless species of plants and wildlife making it the perfect location for nature study, boating and fishing.

Santa Margarita Dam was constructed 1941, by the Army Corp. of Engineers, originally designed to furnish water to Camp San Luis Obispo. Today it is a major source of drinking water for the City of San Luis Obispo.

The park first opened for fishing and boating in 1957 and is still one of the best locations for fishing and relaxation found on California's Central Coast.

SERVICES:

FISHING/BOATING: Cast your line into Santa Margarita Lake and you'll find black bass, striped bass, trout, catfish, crappie and bluegill. Fishing is good from shore or use one of the launch ramps and try your luck from a boat or canoe. Though noted for its excellent fishing and peaceful boating, the park also hosts a vast range of hiking and riding trails which offer breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains

HIKING/TRAILS: Beyond the developed area of the park are several thousand acres of designated open space, the Santa Margarita Lake Natural Area. This part of the park is managed for its natural resource values, passive recreational use, and environmental education opportunities. The area is accessible to hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians; motor vehicles are not permitted in the Natural Area. Primary access to the Natural Area is from River Road at the east end of the lake. You can access this area by taking Pozo Road about 8 miles south east of Lake Road, then turn left on River Road and proceed for about 2 miles. The entrance is on the right.

PICNICS: Individual picnic sites with barbecues are found throughout the park. The White Oak group picnic area can be reserved on a year round basis.

CAMPING: Overnight camping is available at the Coyote, Grey Pine,and Sapwi campgrounds. Group camping is available at the Roadrunner campground and groups may reserve from eight to twelve sites, many with views overlooking the lake. A group barbecue and fire ring are also available.

SWIMMING: A swimming pool is open from Memorial Day through September. Contact the Lake Office (805) 438-5485, for hours and further information about lessons and private party reservations. Body contact is not permitted as the lake is the drinking water reservoir for the City of San Luis Obispo.

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS:

LAKE OFFICE: (805) 788-2397, CAMPING RESERVATIONS: (805) 788-2397, DAY USE/PICNIC RESERVATIONS: (805) 781-5930, MARINA STORE: (805) 438-4682, COUNTY PARKS OFFICE: (805) 781-5930.