Tuttletown Recreation Area

About

Tuttletown Recreation Area is located at New Melones Lake on the Stanislaus River. The 12,500 surface-acre lake is the fifth largest lake in California and is situated along the edge of the Mother Lode, the rich gold vein that prompted the California Gold Rush of 1849. At an elevation of 1100 feet, the Foothill Oak Woodlands hug the 100 miles of shoreline. Popular activities on and around the large, yet uncrowded lake include fishing, boating, water skiing, wake boarding, jet skiing, sailing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, wildlife viewing, rock climbing, hiking, biking, horseback riding and picknicking. The New Melones Visitor Center offers year-round interpretive events and a museum highlighting natural and cultural resources. Recreation area entrance gates are closed at night during the posted hours. Vehicle entry after the gates are closed is prohibited. Exit at any time. Manzanita Lower Loop will sites start closing when water level reaches 1060 feet. If New Melones Lake elevation is below 910′, boat ramps are not available. Campfires are only allowed in fire rings or grills in designated areas. Pay showers are available in the campground. $0.50 for 5 minutes. For additional information see 43 CFR Parts 423 and 429. They are available at the New Melones Administrative Office or online at: http://www.usbr.gov/cio/im/rules/Rules.htm