Hodges Reservoir

Hodges Reservoir is located approximately 31 miles north of San Diego, on the San Dieguito River, which enters the ocean at Del Mar. See the "What's New" page for current schedule.

Directions: From Interstate 15, exit on Via Rancho Parkway, go west to Lake Drive, then south to the lake entrance. From the entrance it's about one mile to the launch area.

Located in a coastal canyon, Lake Hodges offers an environment that serves as a pleasant backdrop to a variety of recreational uses, including fishing, boating, bike and horseback riding, and picnicking.

Trails: The dirt hiking and riding trails around much of the lake wind through ever-changing terrain and biological settings which include streams, lush river valleys, canopied oak forests, arid rocky terrain and open fields. The topography changes from elevated vistas to marsh-like wetlands. There are accessible staging areas at five locations along the seven mile primary route. For more information on Hodges trails, check "San Dieguito River Park"

When full, the reservoir has 1,234 surface acres, a maximum water depth of 115 feet, and 27 shoreline miles. Water levels are monitored weekly.

There are six barbecues and 12 picnic tables in the picnic area. Patrons can bring self-contained barbecues for use in designated areas only. No ground fires or glass containers are allowed. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and at least 50 feet away from the water. Dogs are not allowed on boats (private or rental).

The fishery consists of Florida-strain largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, bullhead and carp. Minimum size limit for bass is 15 inches. Fish limits are five bass, five catfish and 25 crappie, with no limit on bluegill, bullheads or carp. Fish catch information is updated weekly.

In addition to fishing from boats and a wheelchair accessible fishing float, patrons can fish from float tubes, wade or fish from the shore, which is generally readily accessible by foot.

Use of float tubes is restricted to within 150 feet or less from shore. Float tubers must wear chest waders and have a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device readily available at all times, and have 144 square inches of international orange visible at least 12 inches above the water line. They must also possess a horn or whistle to warn approaching craft. Any float tube that uses oars or has a motor must purchase a private boat use permit for $5.00.

Overnight camping is not allowed at Lake Hodges. The nearest camping is at Lake Dixon, approximately 10 miles east of Escondido.