Can you swim in Lake Natoma?
Lake Natoma is an intermediate lake along the American River, located between Folsom Dam and Nimbus Dam in Sacramento County, in the U.S. state of California. The lake is located within the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. It is a recreational lake for rowing, kayaking and swimming.
Did you know Lake Natoma is near Folsom Lake?
Kayakers who enjoy Folsom Lake might not be aware of the smaller but more picturesque Lake Natoma, located just a short distance from the Folsom Lake Dam. Lake Natoma is snuggled at the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills, about 15 miles north of Sacramento, along the Lower American River.
What is the volume of Lake Natoma?
• Volume: 9,000 Acre Feet. Lake Natoma is an intermediate lake along the American River, located between Folsom Dam and Nimbus Dam in Sacramento County, in the U.S. state of California.
How many boat launch ramps are on Lake Natoma?
Two launch ramps provide continuous boat launching access year-round, in addition to one car-top boat launch area. Lake Natoma is an excellent facility for non-motorized boat recreation. Motorized boating is also allowed and there is a 5 mph speed limit on the entire lake.
How much does it cost to go to Lake Natoma?
$10Boat Launching - Registered VesselPeakNon-PeakFolsom Lake$10$10Lake Natoma$10$10
Can you swim in Lake Natoma?
Formed by a dam on the American River, Lake Natoma offers a wealth of swimming, water sports, and fishing opportunities just a 10-minute drive from downtown Rancho Cordova.
What time does Granite Bay open?
Daily Summer Hours 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. The Granite Bay snack bar also rents beach equipment. The beach equipment includes kayaks, paddle boards, volleyball sets, shade canopies and rafts of all sizes. Additionally catering for family and company picnics as well as group discount rental rates are available.
Where can I launch kayak Lake Natoma?
Launches: There are few places to launch. On the Nimbus Dam side, there is Nimbus Flat state park at Hazel and Highway 50 (or, to avoid paying the fees, I think the CSUS aquatic center will let you carry your boat from their parking lot).
Is Lake Natoma open to the public?
Usually open 7 days per week, summer hours (April 1-October 15) are 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Winter hours (October 16 - March 30) are 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Facilities include one group campground, 11 miles of paved bicycle trails, 6 miles of multi-use trails and excellent year-round bank or boat fishing.
How Clean Is Lake Natoma?
The findings were based on water samples taken from 2007 to 2014. Some tests showed E. coli concentrations in Lake Natoma were eight times the level considered safe for recreational use by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Is Folsom Lake Cash only?
Entry fees for the park must be paid to the Park Aide at the Entrance Kiosk. Payment types accepted: Cash or Credit/Debit cards.
Are there bears in Folsom Lake?
It was pretty cool," Mygatt said. A boater on Folsom Lake was quite surprised when he saw a furry animal swimming nearby, but it wasn't a dog or a coyote ... it was a bear!
How can I get into Folsom Lake for free?
Is Folsom Lake parking free? All parking is free. walk down this path about 50 yards to the start/finish area (the restroom is the building on the left) You can ride a bike/walk/run on the levee to Beals Point, approx 1 mile.
What is the water temperature of Lake Natoma?
Lake Natoma's current water temperature is 88°F.
Are trolling motors allowed on Lake Natoma?
Vessel operation on Lake Natoma is in accordance with the following: a. Motorized craft shall not be operated in excess of five (5) MPH. (Includes radio or remote controlled model boats, and craft powered by electric trolling motors.)
Are dogs allowed at Lake Natoma?
Dogs are allowed a picnic areas but not on or near swimming beaches. However, there are many other spots where your pup can take a dip. Recreation at Lake Natoma is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation under agreement with the Bureau of Reclamation.
What is the water temperature of Lake Natoma?
Lake Natoma's current water temperature is 88°F.
Can dogs swim in Lake Natoma?
Dogs are allowed a picnic areas but not on or near swimming beaches. However, there are many other spots where your pup can take a dip. Recreation at Lake Natoma is managed by the California Department of Parks and Recreation under agreement with the Bureau of Reclamation.
Can you fish in Lake Natoma?
Beautiful Lake Natoma offers 14 miles of shoreline for fishing. Cast for rainbow trout, black bass, big and smallmouth bass, and more. You can fish from the shoreline, access the fishing platform at Nimbus Flat, or take advantage of boat rentals.
Are trolling motors allowed on Lake Natoma?
Vessel operation on Lake Natoma is in accordance with the following: a. Motorized craft shall not be operated in excess of five (5) MPH. (Includes radio or remote controlled model boats, and craft powered by electric trolling motors.)
Do you need to book in advance to visit Lake Natoma?
We recommend booking Lake Natoma tours ahead of time to secure your spot. If you book with Tripadvisor, you can cancel up to 24 hours before your t...
What hotels are near Lake Natoma?
Hotels near Lake Natoma: (0.67 mi) Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Rancho Cordova/Folsom (1.37 mi) Larkspur Landing Folsom (1.47 mi) Hilton Garden Inn F...
What restaurants are near Lake Natoma?
Restaurants near Lake Natoma: (0.58 mi) Mikuni Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar (0.59 mi) Cattlemens (0.70 mi) Old Spaghetti Factory (0.79 mi) Rudy'...
Is Lake Natoma clean?
Each of my visits to Lake Natoma has been for a club rowing event. The facility is always clean, great friendly staff and clean restrooms. The area is surrounded by large lovely trees and trails. My last visit I spotted two bald eagles fishing for food! A great spot for large Regattas!
Is Lake Natoma a good place to go kayaking?
Lake Natoma is a beautiful place to kayak, sail and have a picnic with family. I first came to this place with my boyfriend and his kids to go kayaking over the summer of 2019. We came regularly almost twice or three times a month. Sometimes it would be every weekend.
Where is Lake Natoma?
What's New! Lake Natoma is an intermediate lake along the American River, located between Folsom Dam and Nimbus Dam in Sacramento County, in the U.S. state of California. The lake is located within the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area. It is a recreational lake for rowing, kayaking and swimming.
Where is the Folsom Powerhouse?
The Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park overlooks Lake Natoma in the city of Folsom. It is a California State Historical site, preserving an early hydroelectric power station. A paved cycling and jogging trail encircles the lake along with unpaved equestrian trails. The Folsom South Canal Trail also begins at the lake.
Is Lake Natoma a recreational lake?
It is a recreational lake for rowing, kayaking and swimming. Powerboats are permitted with a 5 mph "no wake" restriction. Lake Natoma is also home to the Sacramento State Aquatic Center, and regularly hosts West Coast College Rowing Championships, the Pac-12 Conference rowing championships, and, every four years, the Intercollegiate Rowing Association Championships. The Lake Natoma Four Bridges Half Marathon is held each October at the lake.
When was Lake Natoma first open?
Lake Natoma was first ready for the public in 1958. The common water activities are kayaking, rowing, canoeing, swimming, water skiing, sailing, and fishing. Land activities include hiking, biking, picnicking, jogging, biking, and horseback riding. Educational activities are also available, including information about historical sites near Lake Natoma and Folsom Lake. Like the common fish that spawn in the American River, the history of the California Gold Rush, and Native American life before the Europeans ' arrival.
How long is Lake Natoma?
Surrounding this narrow lake are foothills, plateaus, cliffs and river canyons. A dense 14-mile-long (23 km) riparian ecosystem encircles the lake. The Lake Natoma Bluffs stand 300 feet (91 m) and line the lake from the Negro Bar to the Mississippi Bar.
Why was Lake Natoma built?
Lake Natoma was built to manage water released from Folsom Dam. Lake Natoma is a reservoir that was built in conjunction with the Folsom Dam and Folsom reservoir by the Central Valley Project Authority. In addition to maintaining water flow the lake provides water to irrigation canals and generates hydro electric power [4].
What fish are in the Nimbus Dam?
Other fish found here are bass, bluegill, and green sunfish. Right under Nimbus Dam are steelheads, Chinook salmon, American shad, and Pacific lampreys. Bald eagles and golden eagles can be found around Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma for nesting; about six bald eagles and two golden eagles are observed annually.
Where is the Aquatic Center for CSUS?
Aquatic Center for CSUS. CSUS Aquatic Center. Where the Nimbus Dam ends, there is an Aquatic Center right on Lake Natoma that belongs to the California State University Sacramento (CSUS). This is where CSUS holds some of their aquatic classes, such as skiing and wind surfing.
Where is the Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park?
Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park. Folsom Powerhouse. Folsom Powerhouse. On the south bank of Lake Natoma lies the old Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park, located in the City of Folsom at the intersection of Riley and Scott Streets.
Where is Lake Natoma in California?
Lake Natoma is a small lake in the western United States, along the lower American River, between Folsom and Nimbus Dams in Sacramento County, California. The lake is located within the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area which is responsible for maintaining ...
What is the best way to visit Lake Natoma?
On warm summer days, Lake Natoma attracts outdoor enthusiasts indulging their favorite recreational activities: hiking and bicycling along groomed trails , taking a delightful dip in the refreshing water, and kayaking under the twinkling stars.
Where is Lake Natoma in Sacramento?
Lake Natoma is snuggled at the base of the Sierra Nevada foothills, about 15 miles north of Sacramento, along the Lower American River. The lake is surrounded by scenic views ...
Is Lake Natoma wind free?
Because the mirror-like water surface of Lake Natoma is virtually wind free in the mornings, it is considered one of the best year-round places to kayak in the state of California. It is known world-wide for its outstanding rowing course and hosts many national and international competitions.
Where to park picnic in Folsom Lake?
Granite Bay Main Beach at Folsom Lake SRA offer two reservable group picnic sites with easy access to the lake and the Granite Bay Main Beach parking area. The group picnic sites are available year round during normal park hours. The group picnic areas can accommodate 100 people both sites include 11 picnic tables, 1 large BBQ station, flush toilets adjacent to site and 2 water faucets. All park day use fees apply. Reservations can be made 90 days in advance at our Folsom Sector Office at 7755 Folsom-Auburn Rd Folsom, CA 95630.
How long is the bicycle path in Folsom Lake?
For cyclists, there is a 32-mile long bicycle path that connects Folsom Lake with many Sacramento County parks before reaching Old Sacramento. The park also includes Lake Natoma, downstream from Folsom Lake, which is popular for crew races, sailing, kayaking and other aquatic sports.
Where is Folsom Lake?
Driving Directions to Folsom Lake SRA. Folsom Lake State Recreation Area is located in the Sierra-Nevada foothills about 25 miles east of Sacramento, can be reached via either Highway 50 or I-80. Both Folsom Lake and Lake Natoma have many access points and entrances.
What to do if you are sick at the state park?
Plan Ahead – Some restrooms will be temporarily closed to keep up with cleaning schedules. Bring soap/hand sanitizer. Play It Safe – Find out what precautions you should take when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time visiting the State Park System.
Where is Peninsula campground in Reno?
Directions to the Peninsula campground: 80 east Reno. From Hwy 80 take the Elm St. exit out of the city of Auburn, at the 1st light make a left, at your very next light you will make another left that is High St. High St turns into Hwy 49 you will travel on Hwy 49 for 10 miles towards the city of Cool.
Is Folsom Lake hot?
Summers at Folsom Lake State Recreation Area are generally hot and dry. Dress lightly for high temperatures but be careful of over exposure to the sun.
Is Willow Creek open?
Willow Creek: OPEN. Granite Bay Low Water: OPEN. Located at the base of the Sierra foothills, the lake and recreation area offers opportunities for hiking, biking, running, camping, picnicking, horseback riding, water-skiing and boating. Fishing offers trout, catfish, big and small mouth bass or perch.
Overview
Lake Natoma is a small lake in the western United States, along the lower American River, between Folsom and Nimbus Dams in Sacramento County, California. The lake is located within the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area which is responsible for maintaining the facilities and bike trails surrounding the lake. Lake Natoma is located 15 miles east of Sacramento, and has 500 surfac…
History
In the 1950s, after the Folsom Dam was constructed as part of the Central Valley project work began on Nimbus Dam which would create Lake Natoma. Lake Natoma was built to manage water released from Folsom Dam. Lake Natoma is a reservoir that was built in conjunction with the Folsom Dam and Folsom reservoir by the Central Valley Project Authority. In addition to maintaining water flow the lake provides water to irrigation canals and generates hydro electric …
Mining History
Before Natoma reservoir was created the section of the American river it now occupies was the site of many gold mining operations in the 1800s.
Around 1956, the Bureau of Reclamation and California Department of Parks and Recreation, also known as State Parks, formed an agreement that State Parks will be responsible for recreational activities on Lake Natoma, as well as Folsom Lake.
Recreation History
In 1979, the general plan for the State Recreational Area at Folsom Lake, including Lake Natoma, was amended three times before it was approved. As part of the 1979 General Plan amendment, the Folsom Powerhouse State Historic Park became a separate unit, not a part of the Folsom Unit.
In 2002, multiple meetings were held for public input and for interested stakeh…
Physical features
Surrounding this narrow lake are foothills, plateaus, cliffs and river canyons. A dense 14-mile-long (23 km) riparian ecosystem encircles the lake. The Lake Natoma Bluffs stand 300 feet (91 m) and line the lake from the Negro Bar to the Mississippi Bar.
Recreational activities
People come to this area for many activities, especially in the summer. The area is accessible via US Highway 50. Since these reservoirs are located in the metropolitan area, the State Recreational Area (SRA) tries to create a habitat suitable for the wildlife that are already living there, to have both "recreation and nature." In 2000, there were over 1.5 million visitors to Folsom Lake State Recre…
Animals
Native animals known to lie here are the mule deer, coyote, bobcat, mountain lion, quail, bald and golden eagle, heron, egret, western pond turtle, and California horned lizard. A few common fish in Lake Natoma are catfish and carp. Aquatic animals in Lake Natoma are usually tolerant of warm water and low oxygen level water. Other fish found here are bass, bluegill, and green sunfish. Right under Nimbus Dam are steelheads, Chinook salmon, American shad, and Pacific lampreys. Bald …
Environmental issues
Fish at Lake Natoma were found to have high levels of mercury in their tissue. A sample of 22 fish showed that mercury levels had approached or exceed guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which is set at 3 microgram Hg/g wet weight. Since there were too few samples, it is not known for sure if mercury is randomly distributed throughout Lake Natoma. Concentration of mercury increases as sizes of fish increase, usually because of bioaccumulation. …