Explore Arnold
Spicer Meadow Reservoir
This picturesque reservoir, surrounded by towering conifers and rugged mountain landscapes, has a rich history, diverse wildlife, and an array of activities that cater to both adventure seekers and those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
First things first
Take a Dip
Surrounded by a dense forest of fir and pine trees, Spicer Meadow Reservoir offers a serene and tranquil environment. The still waters mirror the towering peaks and create a picture-perfect reflection that photographers and nature enthusiasts will cherish.
Geography
Where Spicer Meadow Reservoir sits
Spicer is a long, steep-sided reservoir on Highland Creek, held back by New Spicer Dam and fed in part by diversions from the North Fork Stanislaus River.
The shoreline is granite and red fir with very little development, and the paved-then-rough access road climbs several miles off the highway, which keeps crowds down even in August.
It is about 30 miles from Chalet Bruin and Koda Loft via Highway 4 and Spicer Reservoir Road — roughly 55 minutes.
- Region
- High central Sierra Nevada, Highland Creek drainage
- County
- Alpine County, near the Tuolumne line
- Elevation
- About 6,550 ft
- Nearest town
- Bear Valley
- Getting there
- Highway 4, then Spicer Reservoir Road
History of Spicer Meadow Reservoir
Spicer Meadow Reservoir, located in Tuolumne County, is a man-made lake created by the construction of the Spicer Meadow Dam. The dam was built in 1925 by the Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) to support hydroelectric power generation. It serves as part of a complex system of dams and reservoirs in the Sierra Nevada that harness the energy of snowmelt and rainfall, producing electricity for the region.
The construction of the dam involved the creation of a 200-foot long and 75-foot high concrete structure, which impounds the waters of the South Fork of the Stanislaus River. This project significantly altered the landscape, submerging a lush meadow and dense forest to form the reservoir that visitors see today.
How to Get Spicer Meadow Reservoir From Arnold
Head South on CA-4 E:
From Arnold, you will need to head south on Highway CA-4 East. This route will take you deeper into the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Continue on CA-4 E through Camp Connell and Dorrington:
You’ll pass through small mountain communities like Camp Connell and Dorrington as you continue east on CA-
Reach Spicer Reservoir Road:
After driving for approximately 25 miles on CA-4 East, you’ll reach Spicer Reservoir Road (Forest Route 7N01). Look for signage indicating Spicer Reservoir.
Turn Left onto Spicer Reservoir Road:
Turn left onto Spicer Reservoir Road (Forest Route 7N01). This road will take you to Spicer Meadow Reservoir.
Follow Spicer Reservoir Road:
Continue driving on Spicer Reservoir Road, which is a winding mountain road. The road may be narrow and unpaved in sections, so drive with caution.
Arrive at Spicer Meadow Reservoir:
After approximately 6-7 miles on Spicer Reservoir Road, you will reach Spicer Meadow Reservoir. There, you’ll find various recreational opportunities, campgrounds, and scenic views.
Nearby
Keep exploring
Boating
Boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding are popular activities on the reservoir. Bring your own boat or rent one to explore the reservoir. The lake has 22 miles of shoreline, several islands, and numerous inlets. Boats on Spicer are limited to 10 MPH.
Fishing
The reservoir is stocked with rainbow and brown trout, making it an ideal location for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you prefer fly-fishing, bait fishing, or trolling from a boat, you're likely to have a successful day on the water. Be sure to check current fishing regulations and obtain any necessary permits.
Camping
There are several campgrounds in the area, including the Spicer Reservoir Campground and Union East Campground, which offer a rustic camping experience. Be sure to check the availability and reservation policies in advance, as these campgrounds can fill up quickly during the summer months.
Stay nearby
Cabins near Spicer Meadow Reservoir
Spicer Meadow Reservoir is up the Highway 4 corridor past Arnold, well within a day's outing for boating, fishing or camping scouting. Looking for lodging near Spicer Reservoir? Arnold Haven has two dog-friendly cabins — a five-bedroom A-frame chalet that sleeps 12 and a two-bedroom loft that sleeps 4. Minimum stay is 2 nights, check-in is at 3pm and check-out at 11am.
- Check-in
- Self check-in, 3pm
- Cancellation
- Full refund 5+ days ahead; holidays 30 days
Check live availability, see your full price, and book securely — ID check and payment are handled by Stripe.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Spicer Reservoir?+
Yes, you can swim in Spicer Reservoir. You can also sail, canoe, kayak, float and fish.
What kind of fish are in Spicer Reservoir?+
Spicer has brook trout, Lahontan cutthroat trout, brown trout and rainbow trout.
What is the elevation of Spicer Reservoir?+
Elevation: **6,600 ft**.