Lakes and rivers near the San Francisco Bay Area
9 lakes and rivers within about 180 miles of the San Francisco Bay Area, closest first, with boat rentals, camping and fishing for each.
170 cfs
Russian River
Lazy summer canoe floats through redwoods and wine country.
83% full
Lake Berryessa
Napa County coves, the Glory Hole spillway and calm morning ski water.
Clear Lake
Largest natural freshwater lake fully inside California. Trophy bass water.
40% full
Folsom Lake
Sacramento's backyard lake. Ski boats, beaches and the American River trail.
63% full
New Melones Lake
Gold Country reservoir known for kokanee and quiet houseboat coves.
South Fork American
California's most-run whitewater. Class II-III through Coloma.
44% full
Lake Oroville
Spotted bass capital with floating campsites and boat-in camps.
Merced River
Big spring whitewater just outside Yosemite.
Lake Tahoe
Alpine blue water at 6,225 ft. Paddleboards, beaches, and cold-water trout.
Distances are straight-line miles from the city center. Drive times are longer in the mountains.