The drive to Mammoth Pool Reservoir was a soul-stirring scenic delight. The smooth, 40-mile journey through a dense forest provided a pleasant respite after the trip to Thomas Edison Lake. For those who love nature, campsites dot the wooded roadsides leading to the reservoir. The recreation area at Mammoth Pool Reservoir is half a mile away from Mammoth Pool Campground. In the middle of a mountainous area, this rustic campground meanders through a stand of Ponderosa pine and cedar trees alongside the San Joaquin River.

My first glimpse of Mammoth Pool came from the Mile High Vista Point, which offers an awe-inspiring 180-degree panorama. Unusual dome-shaped rock formations and a towering dam create a sense of grandeur, as if one could paddle to the edge of the world.

Mammoth Pool Reservoir is a premier destination for kayak anglers seeking rainbow, eastern brook, and German brown trout. However, fishing is prohibited from May 1st to June 16th to accommodate migrating deer.

Beyond fishing, the reservoir offers outstanding opportunities for boating and water sports like canoeing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, from shoreline fishing to hiking. Unfortunately, the lake and campground will be closed for repairs and tree removal through 2025.

Map of Mammoth Pool Reservoir