OBSERVATION POINT PICNIC SHELTER (CA)

About OBSERVATION POINT PICNIC SHELTER (CA)

Overview New Hogan Dam and Lake is located in the oak- and brush-covered foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. The 4,400 acre lake was created in 1964 with the completion of New Hogan Dam. When full, the lake has 50 miles of shoreline and extends nearly eight miles upstream to the confluence of the north and south forks of the Calaveras River. The dam provides flood protection to the City of Stockton (among other communities) and water for irrigation, drinking, and hydroelectric power. The area is generally characterized by a warm, dry climate with summer temperatures regularly soaring above 90 degrees. Recreation This picnic shelter offers a perfect setting for a large gathering of family and friends to spend a day in the fresh air with panoramic views of the lake and dam. The overhead shade shelter provides for an escape from the hot sun above. Fishing is allowed year-round, subject to state regulations. Popular species caught in New Hogan Lake include striped bass, black bass, catfish, bluegill, and crappie. Below the dam, the cool waters of the Calaveras River are home to a healthy population of rainbow trout. Fly-fishing is popular on this stretch of river.Facilities Fixed picnic tables on a concrete foundation with seating for approximately 75 people are provided with space for additional tables under the shade shelter. A large free standing barbeque, an electrical outlet, and trash/recycle receptacles are also provided as a convenience. Asphalt parking, flush restroom facilities, horseshoe pits, drinking fountains and a playground are located adjacent to the shelter. The parking lot for this area is shared with the Park Visitor Center and Headquarters Office. *Note that this is a picnic shelter designated for personal picnics and gatherings. If you wish to hold a special event at this location please contact the New Hogan Lake Park Headquarters office to obtain a special use permit at 209-772-1343.Natural Features Wildlife species thrive at the lake and o

How to Get There

From Stockton California, take State Highway 26 east for 30 miles. Turn right on Hogan Dam Road and continue for 3 miles, then follow signs to the Park Headquarters. The Observation Point and Picnic Shelter is located at the Park Headquarters parking lot.

What to Pack for Your Stay

Tuned to the live forecast for this park.

Plan Your Visit to OBSERVATION POINT PICNIC SHELTER (CA)

Heading to OBSERVATION POINT PICNIC SHELTER (CA)? A few things to know before you go:

• Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
• Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
• Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
• Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
• Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

References & Official Resources

• Official Recreation.gov page
• View on OpenStreetMap
• Driving directions (Google Maps)