On warm summer days, you’ll find Utica Reservoir dotted with outdoor enthusiasts indulging in some of their favorite activities: picnicking beside sparkling water, horseback riding and hiking along groomed trails, taking an invigorating splash-filled dip in the refreshing water, or pitching a tent for a night’s rest under the star.

Utica and Union Reservoirs are small, picturesque reservoirs located off the Spicer Reservoir Road, about two miles off of Highway 4, near Bear Valley. Utica Reservoir is a paddling paradise since no powerboats are allowed. The Utica Reservoir feeds Union Reservoir, located just south of Utica Reservoir.

The reservoir is small and can be easily paddled in a couple of hours, but it takes days to explore the seemingly endless hidden passages, breathtaking landscapes, colorful lily ponds, beautiful babbling brooks, and secluded coves. Large rock islands protrude out of the water for as far as the eye can see, making this a unique paddling experience.

This little gem is home to several small islands that provide shaded picnic spots along a rocky, wooded shoreline. Much of the reservoir shore is lined with pine and granite boulders, adding an air of tranquility to the reservoir. Being forest service land, camping is allowed in most any place that is not marked as “no camping”. One thing Utica Reservoir has is an abundance of outstanding scenery and people. If you’re looking for peace and relaxation, Utica Reservoir delivers on weekdays. Both Union and Utica Reservoirs are crowded in the summer, especially on weekends. If you can choose a midweek day or off-season time to visit, the experience is more intimate.

Lake Alpine, Union Reservoir, and Spicer Meadow Reservoir are all just a few minutes drive away.

Map of Utica Lake

 
 
 
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