CAUTION - Harmful algae may be present in the reservoir.
Basic Park Information
Located in the northernmost part of the San Joaquin Valley. Popular for fishing, boating, picnicking, birdwatching, and peaceful shoreline walks. It is also at the northern terminus of the California Aqueduct. Access for the California Aqueduct bikeway can be made from the main parking lot.
Address: 13638 Christensen Rd, Byron, CA 94514
Fees:
- $6 parking
- $7.00 boat launch
- $1.00 discount for vehicle day use for persons 62 years of age or older
Boating:
- Boat launch near main parking lot
- Speed limit is 5 mph
- Small boats, canoe, kayak, catamarans, sailboarders are allowed
Fishing
- Persons age 16 and over must carry a valid fishing license.
Bicycling
- The California Aqueduct Bikeway is a popular cycling trail.
Dogs
- Dogs must be on a 6 foot maximum leash and under human control at all times.
Education Programs
Upcoming summer Events
Kayak Tour, Saturday June 13th10am-12pm
We’ll spend 90 minutes learning about the reservoir, safe kayaking practices, and the plants and animals in the gem of a park. Participants must bring their own kayak, canoe, paddleboard, etc. and a life vest. Please arrive early to launch boats. Rain or High Winds Cancel.
Guided Bird Walk, Saturday June 20th 10am-11am
Join us at the entrance of the California Aqueduct Bikeway and learn about the birds that live and migrate at the reservoir
Ready, Set, Fish. Saturday July 4th 10am-12pm FREE FISHING DAY
Join us at the picnic tables! We’ll spend some time going over the basics of using your fishing pole, including how to cast and retrieve. We’ll also talk about the different types of fish in Bethany Reservoir and the best tackle to use for each on, how to tie a fast and easy knot. Loaner fishing gear is available. Anyone who is age 16 or over must possess a valid CDFW sport fishing license to fish.
Boating Safety Saturday July 18th 10am-11am
Get the latest information about what is happening in the park. Ask about parks projects boating information, safety information, upcoming events, and much more. Maps and brochures are available for free.
Ready, Set, Fish. Saturday August 8th 10am-12pm
Join us at the picnic tables! We’ll spend some time going over the basics of using your fishing pole, including how to cast and retrieve. We’ll also talk about the different types of fish in Bethany Reservoir and the best tackle to use for each on, how to tie a fast and easy knot. Loaner fishing gear is available. Anyone who is age 16 or over must possess a valid CDFW sport fishing license to fish.
Jr. Rangers Plants, Saturday August 22nd 10am-11am
Drop by the Jr. Ranger table for fun kid friendly activities. Learn about the native wildflowers and how they are important to pollinators. Jr. Rangers is a statewide program for 7 – 12 years old.
Park Specific Rules
Superintendent Orders are laws that are specific to a State Park District and/or a California State Park. The links below will take you to a copy of each District Superintendent Order that applies to Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area (SRA). These orders are posted for viewing at each public entrance of the park. These orders are subject to change and were recently renewed in 2026.Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area is part of the Diablo Range District.
Bethany Reservoir SRA - Park Unit Hours of Operation
Bethany Reservoir SRA - Water Safety
Bethany Reservoir SRA - Dreissenid Mussel Inspection Program
Diablo Range District - Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Diablo Range District Units - Juvenile Curfew
