San Pablo Reservoir

A hidden gem! Definitely make sure your parking pass is on the dash. They always have a good amount of fish. Heads up, it's a reservoir so you cannot swim in the water. Enjoy the water Fun fact: if you rent a boat, keep the pink or yellow slip for a free boat rental ‍

I have been a local regular of this place for years and for the first time was told we could not use RC cars anywhere on the property. My 7 year old son was using his toy RC car in a large grassy area where no one was really walking to, only to be told by the park rangers that he could not use it because it was an electric car. I have never heard of a park not allowing an "electric toy car" not being used at this park but I guess it is their way of trying to keep it "safe". I won't be back anytime soon unfortunately.

Would be a nice convenient place to enjoy the water with my mom had we not encountered such a rude man working at the toll booth. Paying to enjoy the place isn't the issue. We sat there by the window for a few minutes & he was dozing off. So we felt bad waking him & we've never been here or to many where they collect tolls at. So we assumed it was just boat inspection like it said on all signs leading to it. We started to drive off and he woke up or started paying attention finally & screamed at us then proceeded to tell us we could've yelled honked or done anything and got very aggressive. I told him paying the $7 wasn't a problem. He thought we wanted 5-10 minutes free to walk. We will pay to keep this place open to visit in the future. But I'm also not going to beg you to do your job. Like I said we don't go to many of these I prefer hiking trails for scenic routes instead of by the water since it's usually cold. With that being said I've never even Encountered a worker at a toll booth at any i've ever been to at least around here .. so it's not that people don't want to pay we're just not used to seeing people here I usually find the box to put my money in which I was going to do until you screamed at me. Then he decided the park was closed at 6pm and very adamant that it closes at 6 on the dot but i look on here and the website & it says 7pm. Overall a bad trip.$7 isn't a lot of money nor is it a problem to have to pay to enjoy a nice view but when you're not paying attention then scream at first time visitors it's just rude I won't be back anytime soon.

I always bring my kids to pedal boat.. We love it, but always forget to bring cash to tip the employees at the dock.

** The following review reflects my experience prior to the shelter-in-place order currently in effect. **I was hoping this picturesque lake would offer walking trails that match up with the boating, fishing, and picnicking that represent the true trifecta of attractions here. Unlike Lake Chabot, there isn't a continuous trail that conveniently circles the water. I actually had to re-park my car at the northern end of Old San Pablo Dam Road to find a short, fly-infested trail that led me on a stroll to the dam itself. Nobody yelled me over a loudspeaker, so I assumed it was OK to walk on itI didn't do much more than that since I didn't have my pole and tackle box with me. As if. Did I mention it cost me $7 to use the parking lot and I also got a stern warning that they lock the front gate at 5PM. No exceptions. If you want a better trail with a nice panoramic view of the reservoir, might I suggest the Upper Seafoam Trail in the Kennedy Grove Regional Recreational Area at the next exit off San Pablo Dan Road (review: https://bit.ly/2RGL8Z7)? Much better and a good workout.RELATED - Up for a hike? Here's a collection of trails I've walked and later reviewed: https://bit.ly/2OrC8nU

This review reflects my experience with only one employee, a female named "Marcie". Well, maybe the person who manages Marcie should be on the hook as well. Marcie was in charge of boat inspections today. She wouldn't allow me and my friend to launch our kayak because our kayak was a rental from REI and she "didn't know where it had been". The details are ridiculous. Bottom line is, this woman is using her position to exert power and control as well as inconvenience people who want to enjoy the reservoir. Marcie should be trained in customer service or not be permitted to work with the public!

We came here on a chilly afternoon for my husbands company pic nic. Even though the sun wasn't shinning (cloud cover) and there were gusts of wind from time to time, everything to have a fun time was possible. The area is breathtakingly beautiful. Surrounded by trees and water, it's a perfect setting for a good time outdoors. There are gender specific public restrooms and a cute consession that sells all your camping "Oh I forgot...." items. Parking is $7 and neither swimming nor wading is allowed. This is a drinking water reservoir.Great place for large or small groups.

I love this reservoir, the water is clear, there is no swimming but the park the bathroom the staff at the shop are top notch. Very kind people. If you see like it's close it is not is just the shades to protect from the sun. They are open seven days a week. The shop has everything from a picnic to a day fishing with a couple of beers. Prices are very reasonable. Words can speak so much but pictures will tell my story. Bathrooms are very clean and plenty of parking. Boat rentals are easy and clean.

My family and I had a ball!! What a hidden gem. The boat rides were the icing on the cake!! The bbq pits made it convenient and easy to throw down! Music, good vibes all around. And the satff was so helpful. Another good spot for family or adult fun.

Fun place to bring the family on a picnic/barbecue or boat ride. The views are great too.