Union and Utica Reservoirs are picturesque small, twin reservoirs located off the Spicer Reservoir Road, about two miles from Highway 4, aka Ebbetts Pass National Scenic Byway. Both areas are popular recreation sites, providing opportunities for dispersed camping, canoeing and kayaking, picnicking, mountain biking the Slick Rock Road, swimming, and fishing. No developed recreation facilities exist at either lake, but rustic campsites including tables and stoves are available. The reservoirs are home to a number of islands, especially at Utica, which provide tranquil picnic and camping spots. A primitive boat launch is available at Union Reservoir and maximum boat speed is five miles per hour. Utica Reservoir is managed to favor non-motorized boating only.

Both reservoirs were constructed to provide water to fist placer, and later hard rock mining operations. Union Reservoir was built in 1853 by the Union Water Company of Murphys to provide water to Murphys, Angels Camp, and beyond.The Utica Mining Company took over the Union Water Company in the late 1880's, and enlarged the Union Reservoir in 1901. The company constructed Utica Reservoir in 1905 to augment its water resources and provide water and electricity to its extensive mining and power operations. Today, both reservoirs are owned and operated by Northern California Power Agency ( NCPA ) as part of their Upper Utica Project. They are used to regulate water flows for downstream power generation as part of NCPA's North Fork Stanislaus River Hydroelectric Development Project.

If you can choose a midweek day or off -season time to visit, the experience is more intimate. Kayak and Canoe rentals are available in Arnold and Bear Valley.

Fees: There is a fee to camp, but no launch or day use fee. Fishing access is free, but make sure you have the proper fishing license.

Wind & Weather Conditions: The reservoir’s water temperature is extremely cold. The northern end of the lake has a few shallow spots, with several small islands, but the southern end of the reservoir is quite deep.

Kayak Fishing: Rainbow trout fishing is very good at Union Reservoir. Union provides the better fishing than Utica Reservoir, since it is stocked with 10 to 12 inch Rainbow and eagle lake trout each summer by the Department of Fish and Game, while Utica Reservoir is not. Union Reservoir is also stocked with kokanee salmon fingerlings.

Paddle Notes: Union Reservoir and the adjoining Utica Reservoir are set in Sierra granite at 6,850 feet. It is an outdoor paradise of fresh blue water, awe-inspiring scenery, excellent hiking trails, first class dispersed walk-in campsites around the reservoir.

Lake Facilities: Vault toilets are provided, but there is no drinking water at the reservoir. You need to bring your own water. Garbage must be packed out. Supplies and gasoline are available off Highway 4 in Tamarack. Hand launch access only. Car top boats only. You need to hand carry your kayak down to the water. Swimming is permitted, but use caution for extremely cold water temperature.

Terrain: Kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts enjoy the expanse of deep blue water, and fresh scent of evergreens. There are miles of scenic hiking trails and picturesque inlets and coves to explore. With exceptional paddling, camping, hiking, and fishing, opportunities the Union Reservoir is quickly becoming a favorite summer vacation destination. It has something enjoyable for everyone. It is an ideal vacation destination for people who want to get away and rough it for a while. Kayakers might have a chance to see one of the bald eagles that nest around the reservoir.

Lake Directions: From Highway 99 at Stockton, turn east on Highway 4 and drive to Angles Camp at the Junction of Highway 4 and Highway 49. Continue for approximately thirty-two miles east on Highway 4 to Forest Service Road 7N01/Spicer Reservoir Road. Turn right, and then drive eight-and-a-half miles east. Turn left on Forest Service Road 7N75 and drive two miles to the reservoir entrance.

Well mannered pets are welcome.