Updated: September 23, 2025 by Michael Kahn. Published: September 17, 2025.
Jenkinson Lake, also known as Sly Park, is in the heart of El Dorado County’s Eldorado National Forest, one of Northern California’s family friendly paddleboarding experiences. The 650-acre reservoir sits at 3,500 feet elevation and provides crystal-clear waters surrounded by dense pine forests and granite outcroppings. Whether you’re a beginner seeking calm waters or an experienced paddler looking for scenic adventure, Jenkinson Lake delivers an exceptional day on the water with comprehensive facilities and diverse recreational opportunities.
Table of Contents
- Getting There and Basic Information
- Water Conditions and Temperature
- Paddleboard Rentals and Equipment
- Distance Guide to Popular Paddleboard Destinations
- Wildlife Viewing
- Fishing
- Camping at Jenkinson Lake
- Hiking Trails and Waterfall Access
- Planning Your Paddleboard Day
Getting There and Basic Information
Located approximately 5 miles south of Pollock Pines off Highway 50, Jenkinson Lake is easily accessible from the Sacramento area.
The main entrance is at 4771 Sly Park Road, where visitors pay a $13 day-use fee ($15 on holidays) plus $5 per dog.
The lake operates year-round, though paddleboard rentals are seasonal, typically running weekends from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
The Eldorado Irrigation District manages the recreation area, which features two main boat launch areas: the primary marina near the main lake and the Stonebraker launch facility in the upper lake’s narrower section.
Both areas provide excellent access points for paddleboarders, with the Stonebraker location particularly favored for its quieter waters and 5-mph speed limit.
Water Conditions and Temperature
Monthly Water Temperature Averages
Jenkinson Lake’s water temperature varies significantly throughout the year, making timing crucial for comfortable paddleboarding. Based on regional data for similar elevation lakes in California:
Spring (March-May): Water temperatures range from 51°F in March to 62-63°F in May, requiring wetsuits for most paddlers.
Summer (June-August): Peak season offers the warmest waters, reaching 68-75°F, ideal for comfortable paddleboarding with minimal thermal protection needed.
Fall (September-November): Temperatures gradually decrease from 70°F in September to 54-56°F in November.
Winter (December-February): Coldest period with temperatures around 46-48°F, suitable only for experienced cold-water paddlers with proper gear.
Current conditions show the lake at approximately 76°F, making it excellent for extended paddling sessions during peak season.
Water Quality and Clarity
Jenkinson Lake maintains excellent water quality as a drinking water reservoir. The crystal-clear waters provide excellent visibility, though swimmers should note that domestic animals are prohibited from entering the water due to state regulations protecting the drinking water supply.
The lake’s clarity makes it ideal for spotting fish and underwater features while paddleboarding.
Paddleboard Rentals and Equipment
Sly Park Paddle Rentals operates from the Stonebraker launching facility, offering comprehensive rental services during peak season. Available equipment includes:
Paddleboards: $20 for the first hour, $15 for each additional hour, or $65 for all-day rental. The rental fleet includes both hard boards and inflatable SUPs, accommodating different skill levels and preferences.
Additional Equipment: Kayaks ($20/hour), canoes ($30/hour), and tandem kayaks ($30/hour) are also available. All rentals include safety equipment, with personal flotation devices required by park regulations.
Operating Hours: Weekends 9 AM to 5 PM, Memorial Day through Labor Day. Reservations are recommended during peak summer months.
Distance Guide to Popular Paddleboard Destinations
Main Lake Area
- Marina to Narrows Entrance: Approximately 0.8 miles – perfect for beginners seeking a moderate paddle with marina facilities nearby.
- Main Lake Circuit: 2-3 miles – offers open water paddling with mountain views and occasional wildlife sightings.
Upper Lake (The Narrows)
- Stonebraker Launch to Park Creek: 1.2 miles – leads toward the waterfall area through the scenic narrow section
- Full Narrows Exploration: 1.5-2 miles – encompasses the entire 5-mph zone with opportunities for quiet paddling and wildlife observation
Extended Adventures
- Complete Lake Perimeter: Approximately 8.8 miles – advanced paddlers can circumnavigate the entire lake, though this requires significant endurance and time
- Marina to Second Dam: 1.5 miles – provides views of the auxiliary dam and historical remnants
The upper lake’s narrow configuration and speed restrictions make it ideal for paddleboarding, as larger motorboats typically avoid this area.
Wildlife Viewing
Mammals
The Jenkinson Lake watershed supports diverse mammal populations typical of the Sierra Nevada foothills.
California mule deer are commonly spotted along the shoreline, particularly during early morning and evening hours.
American black bears inhabit the surrounding forest and occasionally visit the lake for water.
Mountain lions are present in the area, sightings are rare but have been reported in El Dorado County.
Smaller mammals include raccoons, gray squirrels, and various rodent species that contribute to the ecosystem’s biodiversity.
Bird Species
The area hosts over 150 different bird species, making it excellent for wildlife observation while paddling. Common sightings include:
Waterfowl: Great blue herons, great egrets, mallards, American wigeon, and ring-necked ducks frequent the lake throughout the year.
Raptors: Red-tailed hawks, red-shouldered hawks, and turkey vultures are regularly observed soaring above the lake.
Woodland Birds: Acorn woodpeckers, Steller’s jays, mountain chickadees, and cedar waxwings inhabit the surrounding forest.
Seasonal Visitors: Various warblers, flycatchers, and other songbirds arrive during migration periods.
Best Wildlife Viewing Areas
The narrow upper lake section provides the best wildlife observation opportunities due to reduced boat traffic and proximity to undisturbed shoreline habitat. Early morning and late afternoon paddles offer optimal wildlife viewing conditions.
Fishing
Fish Species
Jenkinson Lake supports both coldwater and warmwater fisheries, making it attractive for anglers who combine fishing with paddleboarding:
Rainbow Trout: Regularly stocked by California Department of Fish and Wildlife, typically 12-14 inches with some exceeding 20 inches. Best fishing occurs in spring and early summer.
Brown Trout: Less common but larger, ranging 14-16 inches or more. These are not restocked and should be released.
Kokanee Salmon: Provides excellent light-tackle opportunities, particularly vibrant during spawning season.
Bass Species: Both largemouth and smallmouth bass thrive in the lake, with smallmouth bass being particularly productive in the upper lake arms. Spotted bass are also present.
Panfish: Bluegill, sunfish species, and catfish round out the fishing opportunities.
Safety Advisory
The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment has issued safe eating guidelines for fish from Jenkinson Lake due to mercury levels. Women ages 18-45 and children can safely consume seven servings per week of rainbow trout, three servings of sunfish species, or one serving of black bass species per week.
A valid California fishing license is required. Licenses can be purchased at local retailers, including the CVS at Pony Express and Sly Park Road. Current California Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations apply, including specific bag limits and size restrictions.
Camping at Jenkinson Lake
Campground Overview
The Eldorado Irrigation District operates eight campgrounds around Jenkinson Lake with 191 total campsites.
Each site includes a picnic table, fire ring, and BBQ grill, with piped water and vault toilets available throughout the area.
Campground Types and Amenities
Family Campsites: Accommodate up to 8 people with forest views and lake access. Premium waterfront sites allow boats to be beached nearby.
Group Areas: Multiple group camping areas can accommodate up to 50 people, with Area 4 being a walk-in, tent-only facility for 30 people.
Black Oak Equestrian Camp: Located on the western end of the lake, featuring 13 individual sites ($50/night) or group reservations for up to 50 people and 20 vehicles. Includes corrals, hitching posts, and access to 9 miles of equestrian trails.
Reservation Information
Reservations can be made up to 14 months in advance through the Eldorado Irrigation District reservation system. Check-in is at 2:00 PM, check-out at noon. Additional fees apply for extra vehicles, pets, and boats.
Nearby Accommodations
Sly Park Resort: Offers RV sites with full hookups ($65/day), plus a country store, bar and grill, and gas station.
Sly Guard Cabin: A Forest Service cabin available through Recreation.gov, providing a rustic lodging option near the lake.
Hiking Trails and Waterfall Access
Sly Park Waterfall Trail
The most popular hiking destination is the Park Creek Waterfall, accessible via a moderate 3-mile round-trip hike from the main parking area. The trail leads to a scenic 33-foot waterfall, particularly impressive during spring snowmelt.
Trailhead Access: Park at Hazel Creek Meadow at the end of the park road. Cross the small footbridge over Hazel Creek to begin the approximately 1-mile hike to the waterfall.
Trail Conditions: The path follows the shoreline for nearly a mile along the Southshore trail, providing shaded walking through dense forest. When the trail forks, stay right along the shoreline to reach the Park Creek Bridge area.
Lake Loop Trail
The complete Lake Loop Trail spans 8.8 miles around the entire perimeter, rated as moderate to strenuous due to length rather than elevation gain. The terrain remains relatively level but undulates throughout, offering varied perspectives of the lake and surrounding forest.
Trail Features: Dense forests of pine and fir trees, small meadows, waterfowl viewing opportunities, and glimpses of historical remnants including a partially submerged chimney from Mormon immigrant settlers.
Additional Trail Systems
Fleming Meadow Trail System: Provides alternative hiking options away from the main lake area.
Mormon Emigrant Trail: Offers historical significance and additional trail access, though portions follow roadways with vehicle traffic.
Multi-Use Trail Considerations
All trails accommodate hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Trail etiquette requires hikers to yield to horses and cyclists to yield to hikers, though yielding to all trail users is recommended for safety.
Planning Your Paddleboard Day
Best Times to Visit
Early Season (May-June): Cooler water temperatures but fewer crowds and excellent wildflower displays along hiking trails.
Peak Season (July-September): Warmest water temperatures and longest days, though expect higher visitor numbers, particularly on weekends.
Fall (October-November): Comfortable temperatures with reduced crowds and beautiful autumn colors, though water temperatures begin dropping.
What to Bring
- Personal flotation device (required)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Water and snacks
- Waterproof bag for essentials
- Camera for wildlife photography
- Appropriate clothing for water temperature
- Fishing license if planning to fish
Safety Considerations
- Check weather conditions before launching
- Stay aware of changing wind conditions
- Respect the 5-mph speed limit in the upper lake
- Keep pets out of the water (state regulation)
- Inform someone of your paddling plans
- Consider early morning launches for calmer conditions and better wildlife viewing
Jenkinson Lake offers an exceptional paddleboarding experience that combines pristine mountain waters, diverse wildlife, excellent facilities, and additional recreational opportunities. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful morning paddle, wildlife photography opportunities, or an adventure-filled day combining paddleboarding with hiking and camping, this Sierra Nevada gem provides the perfect setting for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.
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