Lafayette Reservoir Recreation

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Lafayette Recreation Area is an all-year day-use area ideal for hiking, jogging, fishing, boating and picnicking, located off Highway 24 just a mile from Lafayette BART station. The recreation area of Lafayette is open every day. Bicyclists and people on roller skates, roller blades and scooters are allowed on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon until the end of the day and on Sundays on the paved Lakeside Trail and the roads. You'll see the beautiful views of the Reservoir and the Mt, Diablo among the oaks and grassy slopes, so take your time and enjoy the scenery. Please help keep dogs welcome by picking up your dog. Please note, dogs are not allowed in the water.

 

You can rent rowboats and pedal boats. Private rowing boats, canoes, kayaks and small sailboats are allowed if they are carried over a car (no gasoline engines). The main trail around the reservoir is a 2.7-mile paved trail called the Lakeside Trail; the 4.5-mile Rim Trail is a more challenging dirt hiking trail through the surrounding hills.

 

Families, groups and companies can reserve picnic areas for 50 or 200 people. There are many individual tables and barbecues for smaller groups. A large play area provides children with lively fun. The park has toilets and a disabled-access fishing dock with adjacent parking.

 

On 1 April 2019, the Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area introduced annual passes to replace gate cards. Hang-tags are a reliable, long-term solution to the parking needs of the recreation area. Annual Passholders may use expired passes until further notice is given.

 

The recreation area is also open to bikers (and those who prefer roller skates, roller blades and scooters) on the paved Lakeside Trail (2.7 miles) and the roads, but there are no skateboards.

 

The reservoir is surrounded by 35 picnic sites for families and small groups. Most of the picnic areas are located near the dam; others are scattered around the reservoir. Sites may be reserved in person at the Lafayette Visitor Center. A prepaid reservation fee is required. For specific information , please call 925-284-9669.

 

Open fires and barbecues outside developed areas are not permitted. There is an entrance fee to the main lot as well as a short-term (metered) parking lot. Annual passports are also available. The area is open all year round during the daylight hours. Opening and closing times will be posted at the gate.