Bureau of Reclamation

08/31/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 08/31/2026 20:16

Reclamation announces seasonal hours and facility updates at Lake Berryessa

NAPA, Calif. - The Bureau of Reclamation adjusted operating hours at Lake Berryessa beginning September 8, as part of its seasonal transition. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead for changes to facility access, boating regulations, and recreation services.

Dufer Point Visitor Center

  • Open weekends and holidays, Noon to 3 p.m.
  • America the Beautiful Interagency Passes available by appointment on weekdays and during open hours on weekends

Oak Shores Day Use Area

  • South End: Open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • North End: Closed for the season starting October 1
  • Parking fees must be paid and receipts displayed on dashboards
  • Group Reservations - Oak Shores offers four large shade shelters at Acorn Beach and Foxtail Flat. Reservations for groups of up to 50 people are available for $25 per shelter, per day at Recreation.gov. For larger gatherings, contact the Park Ranger Office at 707-905-7896.

Smittle Creek and Eticuera Day Use Areas

  • Open year-round for wildlife viewing, picnicking, and hand-launch watercraft
  • Smittle Creek Trail remains open and accessible from two trailheads:
    • Smittle Creek Day Use Area (year-round)
    • Coyote Knolls parking lot (summer only)
  • Starting September 8, parking lot gates will close at 5 p.m.

Capell Cove Boat Launch

  • Closed indefinitely due to staffing.

Boating and Mussel Prevention

Tip: Boaters should confirm ramp closing times with operators to avoid delays or a second quarantine period.

Concession-Operated Facilities

Alternative recreation opportunities, including boat launching, are available at concession-operated sites:

For more information about activities, fees, maps, and updates, visit the Lake Berryessa Website, call 707-905-7896, or email [email protected].

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits.

Bureau of Reclamation published this content on August 31, 2026, and is solely responsible for the information contained herein. Distributed via Public Technologies (PUBT), unedited and unaltered, on September 01, 2026 at 02:16 UTC. If you believe the information included in the content is inaccurate or outdated and requires editing or removal, please contact us at [email protected]