Donner Lake Fishing, Size, Depth, And More

The shimmering waters of Donner Lake are just one of the things that make this popular tourist attraction worth visiting. You’ll find yourself in Truckee, CA during a trip to Donner Lake. Summer activities at this famous alpine park include hiking, fishing, sailing, picnics, and camping. 

Guests can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing on paths, and playing in the snow throughout the winterr. No matter what brings you to this area of California, below you will find everything you need to know in this ultimate guide for Donner Lake! 

Location of Donner Lake 

The lake itself is within the aptly named Donner Memorial State Park. You’ll find it near the small town of Truckee. It’s located slightly west of downtown Truckee, just off I-80. For locals, Donner Lake is only 100 miles from the sprawling city of Sacramento. 

History of Donner Lake

Have you heard of the Donner party? We know, it practically sounds like a political campaign, but the reality of the Donner party is much more grim. A group of 87 explorers undertook the journey from Springfield, IL to San Francisco during the winter of 1846 to 1847. 

The Sierra Nevada Mountains they were traveling through had accumulations of snow over 20 feet deep blocking the way across the mountains. The band’s minimal provision for food ran out while they waited for the road to become passable, and when a number of the people within the Donner party died from malnutrition, cold, and illness, a handful of the survivors turned to cannibalism in order to remain alive. 

Only 45 of the initial group’s members were still alive when they recovered. A country that was at the time extremely familiar with the migrant experience was affected by the narrative of the Donner Party, yet they were undoubtedly equally intrigued by the tale’s more dramatic elements. 

The story of these people continues to captivate the American people today, and it has served as the inspiration for a number of books, movies, and yes, a lake. Donner Lake’s current rich environment resulted from approximately 7,000 years of global warming and an ongoing source of fresh, glacial meltwater. 

The Tahoe National Forest borders the lake’s eastern shore, while Donner Summit, a naturally occurring granite dam, limits its western end. 

Size of Donner Lake

Currently, Donner Lake is just under a mile wide and nearly three miles long. Camping, picnicking, fishing, rowing, jet skiing, and hiking are all permitted on the 960 acres of pristine water and eight miles of shore that make up Donner Lake. 

Depth of Donner Lake

Donner Lake has a maximum water depth of 328 feet and a median depth of 108 feet. Several springs as well as Summit Creek, Gregory Creek, Billy Mack Creek, and others are the primary tributaries. 

Water Level of Donner Lake

A great deal of the water entering Donner Lake comes from snowmelt, and a 1928 man-made dam presently regulates the lake’s level. As you can likely assume, water levels can vary from one season to another. 

In 2015, Donner Lake was at its lowest capacity in 25 years, reaching just 71% full. In 2022, the water levels were at 90% capacity, showing an impressive increase.

Fishing in Donner Lake

Donner Lake is a well-liked destination for expert fishermen since it boasts an abundance of Mackinaw, rainbow, and brown trout as well as kokanee salmon. The lake is known to yield Mackinaw which is larger than those found close by Lake Tahoe.

Some excellent fish have been caught when fishing from the shore close to the boat ramp. Others claim they have had luck fishing off the west-end docks. The greatest times to catch a Mackinaw when fishing from shore are in spring and autumn.  

To preserve the stock of trophy fish in the body of water, anglers are asked to release all Mackinaw over 10 pounds after catching them. Fishing for Mackinaws at China Cove’s Deep area is advised if you are angling from a vessel.  

The west part of Donner Lake, close to the mouth of the river mouth, and the north shore are popular places to troll for rainbow trout. The nicest part about fishing at Donner Lake is that you can spend the entire day reeling in stringers of kokanee and 18-pound lake trout whilst sitting comfortably in your boat. 

If you manage to locate them, you could potentially be able to catch a rare Lahontan cutthroat trout or two. Check out the rules of Donner Lake before you get in the water as there are a few that pertain. 

Always verify any modifications to the regulations by contacting the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Geology of Donner Lake

The rocks at Donner Pass preserve a geologic past of millions of years. While the earliest rocks’ actual age is unclear, we believe they were laid down as dirt and sand in shallow waters that existed millions of years ago. 

Magma, which is molten rock that has not yet solidified, penetrated these earlier rocks approximately 100 million years ago and then solidified to produce granite. Volcanoes near the present-day Sierra Crest first began to erupt numerous tens of millions of years prior, spewing lava plumes, scorching ash, and volcanic mudflows. 

As a result of volcanic debris flooding the drainage channels, streams were forced to carve out fresh canyons. A great deal of the volcanic material has been removed by deterioration, but patches of dark rock from volcanic eruptions still cover the peaks that look across Donner Pass.

The sediments have been carved over the course of the past two million years by glacial ice throughout numerous ice periods. The basin that currently contains Donner Lake was tunneled out by glaciers flowing over the eastern side of Donner Pass.

Boating and Other Activities

There are a plethora of activities visitors from all walks of life can enjoy. During your trip to Donner Lake, consider taking the time to immerse yourself in nature by doing one (or more) of the following:

Hiking

The China Cove Loop trek is an enjoyable family outing on Donner Lake that passes China Beach. It is close to the Donner Museum, making it easier to do two things in one trip. In the lot itself, parking costs $10, although it’s free outside the boundaries of the park.

There are numerous trails around the lake as well. This is a great way to unplug from your busy daily life, watch birds, or simply enjoy the fresh air and exercise.  

Boating

Whether you’re looking to take out your new boat or rent a kayak, there are plenty of boating options at Donner Lake. You’ll see people canoeing, paddleboarding, and paddleboating around the lake. 

Fishing

Donner Lake is a great location for outdoor enthusiasts who want to go fishing. As previously mentioned, Donner Lake is stocked with kokanee salmon and rainbow trout! Although it is normal to cast a reel from a boat, there are many great places to fish from the shoreline. 

Visitors can fish on the lake from dawn to dusk, but they will need a fishing license.

Swimming

At the West End of Donner Lake, there is a sizable sandy beach. There are numerous play areas, a sizable beach, peaceful, shallow water, barbecues, and an on-site restroom facility amid other amenities.

There are spaces for large parties with covered seating and barbecues, tidy bathrooms, dressing areas, and a clean beach. There’s also a concession stand if you’re craving a treat after a day in the water. 

Snowshoeing

We understand that not everyone visits Donner Lake in the summer! Sledding and snowshoeing are two excellent wintertime activities you can enjoy at Donner Lake. Snowshoeing is permitted on several paths and locations near Donner Lake. 

The Lakeside Trail is a local favorite. The degree of difficulty these trails offer ranges from beginner to moderate. The Coldstream Trail is a broad, rather flat trail near the lake. It’s a nice choice for novice snowshoers seeking a simple walk or groups traveling with kids.

Camping Near Donner Lake 

Sitting out under a blanket of stars surrounded by the flora and fauna of California is like Heaven on Earth. Whether you’re pitching a tent or pulling up the RV, here are some nearby campgrounds that will make your trip to Donner Lake that much more memorable. 

Donner Memorial State Park Campground

Donner Memorial State Park Campground is as close to the action as you can be! This a fantastic experience for people of all ages thanks to its first-rate amenities, the magnificent lake, and extensive local history. 

Swimming, fishing, sailing, waterskiing, and kayaking are all available at Donner Lake. Visitors can find displays regarding Native Americans, settlers, and the construction of the transcontinental railroad at the nearby High Sierra Crossing Museum.

There are over 150 campsites at the Donner Memorial State Park Campground, divided into three zones. The majority of campgrounds allow tents, RVs, and trailers. Some campsites are strictly for tents. 

The bathrooms provide hot showers, which isn’t always available at campgrounds! Who doesn’t love a hot shower after a long day in nature? We suggest making a reservation around six months in advance. 

Granite Flat Campground

Near Truckee and just over 10 miles north of Lake Tahoe, close to the Truckee River is where you’ll find Granite Flat Campground. Some camping spots are in the open, whereas others are shaded by large conifers. 

There are even campsites that have stunning views of the Truckee River. Seven of Granite Flat Campground’s 75 campsites are for tents only. The majority of campsites accept reservations, while a small number are held open to walk-ins only. 

There are a couple of double campsites for larger groups. The camping area is surrounded by Jeffrey and Lodgepole pine trees. One thing we will note is that there is traffic noise from the nearby Highway 89. 

Goose Meadows Campground

In the Tahoe National Forest, the Goose Meadows campground includes 24 campsites situated between the Truckee River and Highway 89. RVs, tents, and trailers are all allowed at Goose Meadows. 

Additionally, each location has a seating area, grate, and fire ring. 

Water for drinking, vault toilets, and food-storing lockers are available at campgrounds. The campsite host also offers firewood for purchase.

Silver Creek Campground

Seven miles south of Truckee, close to Tahoe City, is where you’ll find Silver Creek Campground. The campsite has a number of spots for family and solo campers. Sites can be very open or have shade from big trees. 

There are seven locations specifically for tent camping. These locations border the Truckee River and are accessible by a brief walk. A grill, fire ring, and lunch table are provided at each campsite. 

To preserve food and other aromatic products like bug spray and pet food, every spot has a bear box that you can use to keep things safe.