Outdoor Adventures for Everyone
Whether you’re staying the weekend or just stopping in for the day, Bullards Bar has something for you:
- Boating & water sports
Launch your boat or rent one from Emerald Cove Marina—perfect for kayaking, tubing, waterskiing, houseboating, or paddleboarding in calm coves. - Fishing
Year-round angling opportunities for kokanee salmon, trout, bass, and crappie. It’s known as one of Northern California’s top kokanee fishing lakes. - Camping
Choose from drive-in campgrounds like Dark Day and Schoolhouse, or boat-in only sites like Madrone Cove and Garden Point. Most sites offer fire rings, picnic tables, and forested views. - Hiking & mountain biking
Explore trails like the Bullards Bar Trail (14 miles), Rebel Ridge, and 8 Ball, great for scenic hikes and rides.
Just Visiting for the Day?
You don’t have to stay overnight to enjoy Bullards Bar! The Dark Day Use Area offer:
- A beachfront swim zone—perfect for cooling off on hot days
- Picnic tables with barbecue grills, shaded by pine trees
- Parking, restrooms, and easy access to the lake
It’s a peaceful spot to spend the day with friends and family—swimming, grilling, and soaking in the mountain air.
When to Go
- Spring & early summer: Ideal for hiking, mild temps, and fewer crowds
- Summer: Perfect for swimming and boating—just plan ahead for popular weekends
- Fall & winter: Quieter, cooler months with clear views and crisp air
Why Bullards Bar Is a Hidden Gem
- Recognized by Water Ski Magazine as one of the best recreational lakes in the U.S.
- Fewer crowds than larger lakes, but just as much beauty
- A mix of active adventures and quiet nature moments
🕶️ Open year-round
🗺️ Access points: Dark Day Boat Launch, Cottage Creek Ramp, and Emerald Cove Marina
Whether you’re camping under the stars, paddling across the lake, or simply enjoying a day by the beach with BBQ and good company, Bullards Bar Reservoir offers a refreshing escape into nature.
