Moccasin Reservoir

Direct hiking trails immediately surrounding Moccasin Reservoir are not extensive due to its operational nature as part of the Hetch Hetchy Project. The reservoir primarily serves as a regulating afterbay for the Moccasin Powerhouse. However, the adjacent Don Pedro Lake offers numerous opportunities for hiking, with trails varying in difficulty and length. You can find specific routes and trail details for the wider area on komoot.

Moccasin Reservoir is located near the junction of State Routes 49 and 120, making it accessible by car. While direct parking for the reservoir itself might be limited to roadside pull-offs or small areas, visitors typically access the general area via the nearby Moccasin Point Recreation Area on Don Pedro Lake. This recreation area provides ample parking, boat launch ramps, and a full-service marina, serving as a convenient base for exploring the region.

The region around Moccasin Reservoir generally offers year-round appeal. While the reservoir itself is primarily functional, the surrounding area, including Don Pedro Lake, can be visited in winter. Winter hiking might be possible on trails around Don Pedro Lake, though conditions can vary. Always check local weather forecasts and trail conditions before heading out, as temperatures can drop, and some areas might experience rain or occasional snow at this elevation (around 295 meters).

While Moccasin Reservoir itself is more of a functional landmark, the nearby Moccasin Point Recreation Area on Don Pedro Lake is very family-friendly. It offers camping facilities (both RV and tent), boat launching, and a marina, providing a great base for water sports and outdoor activities. The cool waters of Moccasin Creek, supported by the Moccasin Creek Fish Hatchery, also create good conditions for seasonal trout fishing and birdwatching, which can be enjoyable for families.

Generally, the outdoor areas around Moccasin Reservoir and the broader Don Pedro Lake region are dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them. Specific rules may apply to certain facilities or trails within the Moccasin Point Recreation Area or other managed sites. Always check for posted regulations at trailheads or recreation areas to ensure compliance.

Moccasin is a small town, largely a company town for the Hetch Hetchy system, so direct options for cafes, pubs, or extensive accommodation within Moccasin itself are limited. However, the Moccasin Point Recreation Area on Don Pedro Lake offers camping facilities for both RVs and tents. For more varied dining and lodging options, you would typically need to travel to nearby larger towns such as Groveland (towards Yosemite) or Jamestown/Sonora (along Highway 49).

Moccasin Reservoir is an integral part of the Hetch Hetchy Project, supplying drinking water to San Francisco, and its primary purpose is functional. Therefore, direct recreational swimming in Moccasin Reservoir is generally not permitted to maintain water purity and for safety reasons related to its operational nature. For swimming, visitors should head to the much larger and recreation-focused Don Pedro Lake, which offers designated swimming areas and extensive water sports opportunities.

The area around Moccasin Reservoir, particularly where Moccasin Creek meets Don Pedro Lake, provides a habitat for various wildlife. Birdwatching is a popular activity, with opportunities to spot diverse avian species attracted to the water and riparian zones. Common sightings might include various waterfowl, raptors, and songbirds. Mammals like deer, rabbits, and smaller critters are also present in the surrounding foothills. The Moccasin Creek Fish Hatchery contributes to the region's fish population, supporting local ecosystems.

Accessing the immediate vicinity of Moccasin Reservoir typically does not require specific hiking permits, as it's primarily a functional area. However, if you plan to engage in activities like camping, boating, or using specific facilities at the Moccasin Point Recreation Area on Don Pedro Lake, fees or permits may be required. It's always advisable to check the official website for Don Pedro Lake Recreation Area or contact their visitor services for the most current information on fees and regulations.

Moccasin Reservoir is a crucial component of the Hetch Hetchy Project, which provides water and power to San Francisco. It serves as a "regulating afterbay" for the Moccasin Powerhouse, located at its eastern end. Water from the Hetch Hetchy system flows through the powerhouse, generating hydroelectricity, and then collects in Moccasin Reservoir before continuing its journey. The reservoir's dam, built in 1930, helps regulate this flow, ensuring efficient power generation and water delivery.

The Moccasin Creek Fish Hatchery, operated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, plays an important role in supporting the local aquatic ecosystem and recreational fishing. Established in 1954, the hatchery raises trout that are then stocked into local streams and Lake Don Pedro. This ensures a healthy fish population for anglers and contributes to the biodiversity of the region, enhancing the natural appeal of the area.