Sat, Sep 12Hike & Walk
BVTS Trail Work Day
Join for a day of trail maintenance in Bear Valley.
8:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Bear Valley Adventure Company, Bear Valley
Explore Arnold
Utica Reservoir
Utica Reservoir is located in the Stanislaus National Forest in the Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, set in a granite basin surrounded by red fir and lodgepole pine forest. It is part of the Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway and situated next to Union Reservoir, about 4 miles north of Spicer Meadow Reservoir.
First things first
Utica Reservoir's Emerald Waters
The shimmering reflections of the surrounding mountains and framing by lush forests make it a paradise for nature lovers, especially kayaking campers looking to explore its many islands.
Geography
Where Utica Reservoir sits
Utica and its twin, Union Reservoir, sit on broad glaciated granite benches near the divide between the Mokelumne and North Fork Stanislaus drainages.
The water is shallow and scattered with rocky islets, the pines are short and wind-shaped, and the last miles in are rough dirt — a high, open, quiet corner of the forest rather than a developed lake.
It is about 32 miles from Chalet Bruin and Koda Loft via Highway 4 and the reservoir road — roughly an hour.
- Region
- High central Sierra Nevada, Ebbetts Pass corridor
- County
- Alpine County
- Elevation
- About 6,820 ft
- Nearest town
- Bear Valley, roughly 3 miles away
- Getting there
- Highway 4, then Spicer Reservoir Road and the Union Reservoir spur
02
Utica Reservoir History
Utica Reservoir’s history dates back to the late 19th century when it was initially developed as part of the ambitious hydroelectric efforts that powered the region’s burgeoning mining operations. Built by the Stanislaus Power Company, the reservoir served as a vital water storage facility for generating electricity. Over the years, it has retained its historic charm while transitioning into a recreation destination.
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SLEEP COMFORTABLY IN ARNOLD
Utica Reservoir is a 50-min drive from Arnold.
04
How to get to Utica Reservoir From Arnold, CA
Take CA-4 East:
From Arnold, you’ll want to get on California State Route 4 (CA-4) East. This highway is also known as the Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway, and it provides access to many scenic spots in the Sierra Nevada.
Drive Towards Ebbetts Pass:
Continue driving east on CA-4, and you’ll start ascending through the mountains. You’ll pass through the charming town of Bear Valley, and as you ascend higher, you’ll enjoy beautiful mountain vistas.
Look for Signs to Utica Reservoir:
Keep an eye out for signs or markers that indicate the direction to Utica Reservoir. There should be signs directing you to the reservoir, which is located off CA-4.
Follow the Road to Utica Reservoir:
Follow the road that leads to Utica Reservoir. It may involve a turn or a detour off CA-4. The specific road leading to the reservoir may vary, so it’s important to follow the signs.
Arrive at Utica Reservoir:
After following the signs and the road, you should arrive at Utica Reservoir. There, you can park your vehicle in designated areas and begin enjoying the recreational opportunities the reservoir offers, including fishing, hiking, and camping.
Nearby
Keep exploring
Water Activities
The calm waters of the reservoir are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. Paddle around and explore the shoreline or one of the many islands. Utica Reservoir only permits non-motorized boats.
Fishing
The reservoir is stocked with rainbow and brown trout, making it a popular spot for fishing. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a novice, the tranquil waters of Utica Reservoir provide an ideal setting to cast your line.
Camping
Utica Reservoir has two inviting campgrounds, Sandy Flat Campground with 11 campsites and Rocky Point Campground with 12. Most campsites have at least partial reservoir views. Sites are fairly well separated.
What's on
Upcoming events near Utica Reservoir
The next three months of local happenings, so you can time your stay around the good stuff. Event details come from public community calendars and can change or sell out. Please confirm times with the organiser before making the drive.
September 2026
Sat, Sep 12Live Music
Hermitfest West
Family-friendly festival featuring live music performances.
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM
Bear Valley Meadow, Bear Valley
Sat, Sep 12Festival
Hermitfest West 2026 featuring The Highlife Band
Enjoy live performances by The Highlife Band at this festival.
4:00 PM
Bear Valley, Alpine County, California, Bear Valley
Sat, Sep 12Live Music
Karaoke - Taylor Made
Join for a fun karaoke night at the country club.
7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Sequoia Woods Country Club, Arnold
Sat, Sep 12Nature
South Grove Guided Hike @ Big Trees State Park
Join a guided hike to explore the majestic sequoias.
10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Calaveras Big Trees State Park, Arnold
Sat, Sep 12Community
Annual Lube Room Horse Pasture Golf Tournament
A unique golf tournament played across a horse pasture.
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
The Lube Room Saloon, Dorrington
Sat, Sep 12Live Music
Live at The Lube: Hit Eject
Summer concert series featuring Hit Eject at The Lube Room.
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
The Lube Room Saloon, Dorrington
Sat, Sep 12Live Music
Live Music @ The Lube Room Featuring Hit Eject
Experience live music in a relaxed mountain setting.
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
The Lube Room Saloon, Dorrington
Sun, Sep 13Live Music
Andy & Tarantula Hawk
Live music performance in a scenic lodge.
1:00 PM
Lake Alpine Lodge, Bear Valley
Sun, Sep 13Live Music
Hermitfest West – Music Festival
Annual celebration featuring music and local vendors.
10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Bear Valley Meadow, Bear Valley
Sun, Sep 13Community
Breakfast
Community breakfast with various options available.
9:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Ebbetts Pass Moose Lodge, Arnold
Sun, Sep 13Live Music
SWCC Men's Match Play #1
Golf tournament event for members and guests.
6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Sequoia Woods Country Club, Arnold
Stay nearby
Cabins near Utica Reservoir
Utica Reservoir is up the Ebbetts Pass corridor from Arnold — granite islands, quiet coves and a manageable drive each way. Looking for Highway 4 corridor lodging? 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 Utica Reservoir?+
Yes, you can swim in Utica Reservoir.
Does Utica Reservoir have fish?+
Utica Reservoir has a variety of **native trout species**.
What is the elevation of Utica Reservoir?+
The elevation of Utica Reservoir is approximately 6,800 feet (2,073 meters) above sea level.
How big is Utica Reservoir?+
It covers an area of approximately 29 acres.