CAUTION - Harmful algae may be present in the reservoir.
Basic Park Information
Located in the northernmost part of the San Joaquin Valley. Popular for fishing, boating, picnicking, birdwatching, and peaceful shoreline walks. It is also at the northern terminus of the California Aqueduct. Access for the California Aqueduct bikeway can be made from the main parking lot.
Address: 13638 Christensen Rd, Byron, CA 94514
Fees:
- $11 day use parking
- $7.00 boat launch
- $1.00 discount for vehicle day use for persons 62 years of age or older
Boating:
- Boat launch near main parking lot
- Speed limit is 5 mph
- Small boats, canoe, kayak, catamarans, sailboarders are allowed
Fishing
- Persons age 16 and over must carry a valid fishing license.
Bicycling
- The California Aqueduct Bikeway is a popular cycling trail.
Dogs
- Dogs must be on a 6 foot maximum leash and under human control at all times.
Education Programs
Upcoming summer Events
Aqueduct Walk Friday, July 17th 9:30 - 11 a.m.
Stroll along the California Aqueduct with a State Parks Interpreter to discover the natural wonders of Bethany State Recreation Area! Walking shoes, water, and sun protection encouraged. Meet at the Aqueduct Entry gate at the Southeast end of the parking lot.
Boating Safety Saturday, July 18th 10 - 11 a.m.
Get the latest information about what is happening in the park. Ask about parks projects boating information, safety information, upcoming events, and much more. Maps and brochures are available for free.
Aqueduct Walk Friday, July 24th 9:30 - 11 a.m.
Stroll along the California Aqueduct with a State Parks Interpreter to discover the natural wonders of Bethany State Recreation Area! Walking shoes, water, and sun protection encouraged. Meet at the Aqueduct Entry gate at the Southeast end of the parking lot.
Aqueduct Walk Friday, July 31st 9:30 - 11 a.m.
Stroll along the California Aqueduct with a State Parks Interpreter to discover the natural wonders of Bethany State Recreation Area! Walking shoes, water, and sun protection encouraged. Meet at the Aqueduct Entry gate at the Southeast end of the parking lot.
Ready, Set, Fish. Saturday, August 8th 10 a.m. - noon
Learn the basics of using your fishing pole, including how to cast, retrieve, and tie a fast, easy knot. Discover the different types of fish in Bethany Reservoir and the best tackle to use for each. Loaner fishing gear is available. Anyone who is age 16 or over must possess a valid CDFW sport fishing license to fish. Meet at the picnic tables across from the boat launch.
Jr. Rangers Plants, Saturday August 22nd 10 - 11 a.m.
Drop by the Jr. Ranger table for fun kid friendly activities. Learn about the native wildflowers and how they are important to pollinators. Jr. Rangers is a statewide program for 7 – 12 years old.
Park Specific Rules
Superintendent Orders are laws that are specific to a State Park District and/or a California State Park. The links below will take you to a copy of each District Superintendent Order that applies to Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area (SRA). These orders are posted for viewing at each public entrance of the park. These orders are subject to change and were recently renewed in 2026.Bethany Reservoir State Recreation Area is part of the Diablo Range District.
Bethany Reservoir SRA - Park Unit Hours of Operation
Bethany Reservoir SRA - Water Safety
Bethany Reservoir SRA - Dreissenid Mussel Inspection Program
Diablo Range District - Unmanned Aircraft Systems
Diablo Range District Units - Juvenile Curfew
