Lake Chabot is a man-made lake created in 1875 in Alameda County, California. Most of the lake is located in Castro Valley, just east of San Leandro. Until 1960, the reservoir remained a non-recreational area. Today, the park located around Lake Chabot features many family-friendly activities like camping, hiking, cycling, golf, and much more.
Location
Lake Chabot is located in Alameda County, California. Part of the lake lies within Oakland city, but most of it is in the Castro Valley, an unincorporated area of California. Notable settlements nearby include San Leandro, Oakland, and San Francisco.
Due to its proximity to major urban areas in the San Francisco Bay Area, this lake is a popular destination for residents and tourists alike. The nature scenes that Lake Chabot and associated parks provide are a welcome sight for those who have grown weary of city life.
History
Initially created as an emergency water reservoir in 1875, the dam and surrounding area was generally closed to visitors. At the time, it was simply known as the San Leandro Reservoir, but it was later renamed to Lower San Leandro reservoir when another dam was constructed upstream.
This lake was named a historical site in 1976 by the American Society of Civil Engineers.
Lake Chabot Size
Lake Chabot covers an area of 315 acres.
Fishing in Lake Chabot
Trout are a common fish in Lake Chabot.
©Matt Jeppson/Shutterstock.com
For anglers in the San Francisco Bay Area looking to reel in some freshwater fish, Lake Chabot holds several species of fish. Trout, catfish, largemouth bass, black crappie, sunfish, bluegill, and sturgeon can all be found in Lake Chabot’s waters.
If you’re interested in getting into fishing but don’t have your own equipment like a fishing pole or boat, the Lake Chabot Marina has rentals available. This is a great, low-cost option for beginners who are unsure if they enjoy fishing. Getting into fishing can be expensive, between poles, lures, and other specialized angling gear, so a weekend rental may be attractive every once in a while.
Boating in Lake Chabot
Private watercraft, except for canoes, kayaks, and scull craft shorter than 20 feet, are not permitted to launch into the lake. Persons using float tubes must wear waders or some other kind of protective wetsuit to prevent bodily contact with the water.
To bring out your own canoe, kayak, or scull craft, your vehicle will be charged for entry, which is $5 for standard vehicles and $4 for a trailer, if you have one. An additional $4 will be charged to inspect your boat to ensure it is free of quagga and zebra mussels. Finally, an additional $3 will be charged to launch your boat. All passengers aboard any watercraft must have a US Coast Guard approved personal floatation device.
Camping Around Lake Chabot
There are a number of campsites around Lake Chabot that avid outdoorspeople can utilize. From family campgrounds to group and backpacking sites, there’s a getaway for everyone. Available types of campsites are: family, group, backpacking, cabin, and equestrian.
Reservations for each of these types must be made ahead of time on the East Bay Regional Park District website. The minimum reservation window for each type varies, so make sure to read carefully before making a reservation.
Other Activities at Lake Chabot
Among camping, backpacking, fishing, and boating, the Lake Chabot area still has other fun activities to offer to visitors.
Golf
Located nearby to Lake Chabot is Redwood Canyon Public Golf Course, featuring a full 18 holes. The golf course is part of Lake Chabot Regional Park.
Bicycling
There are a variety of trails ready for bicycles. While other trails may be suitable for riding a bike, the Live Oak Trail (12.42 miles) and Honker Bay (14.41 miles) are some of the best for it. All fire roads are accessible to mountain bikes.
Picnicking
Six designated picnic areas are located nearby to the parking and marina areas, and are equipped with grills and tables. These locations are first come, first served, and are capable of accommodating parties of up to 200 guests.
Swimming
Swimming is not permitted in Lake Chabot. Because its primary purpose is to serve as an emergency water reserve for the Bay Area, bodily contact with the water is not allowed.
