--- title: "Utica Reservoir — Explore Arnold | Arnold Haven" description: "Utica Reservoir sits in a granite basin in the Stanislaus National Forest up the Ebbetts Pass corridor from Arnold." lang: en json-ld: | [ { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "Event", "name": "BVTS Trail Work Day", "startDate": "2026-09-12", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "Join for a day of trail maintenance in Bear Valley.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "Bear Valley Adventure Company", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Bear Valley", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } }, { "@type": "Event", "name": "Hermitfest West", "startDate": "2026-09-12", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "Family-friendly festival featuring live music performances.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "Bear Valley Meadow", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Bear Valley", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } }, { "@type": "Event", "name": "Hermitfest West 2026 featuring The Highlife Band", "startDate": "2026-09-12", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "Enjoy live performances by The Highlife Band at this festival.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "Bear Valley, Alpine County, California", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Bear Valley", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } }, { "@type": "Event", "name": "Karaoke - Taylor Made", "startDate": "2026-09-12", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "Join for a fun karaoke night at the country club.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "Sequoia Woods Country Club", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Arnold", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } }, { "@type": "Event", "name": "South Grove Guided Hike @ Big Trees State Park", "startDate": "2026-09-12", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "Join a guided hike to explore the majestic sequoias.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "Calaveras Big Trees State Park", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Arnold", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } }, { "@type": "Event", "name": "Annual Lube Room Horse Pasture Golf Tournament", "startDate": "2026-09-12", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "A unique golf tournament played across a horse pasture.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "The Lube Room Saloon", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Dorrington", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } }, { "@type": "Event", "name": "Live at The Lube: Hit Eject", "startDate": "2026-09-12", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "Summer concert series featuring Hit Eject at The Lube Room.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "The Lube Room Saloon", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Dorrington", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } }, { "@type": "Event", "name": "Live Music @ The Lube Room Featuring Hit Eject", "startDate": "2026-09-12", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "Experience live music in a relaxed mountain setting.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "The Lube Room Saloon", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Dorrington", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } }, { "@type": "Event", "name": "Andy & Tarantula Hawk", "startDate": "2026-09-13", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "Live music performance in a scenic lodge.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "Lake Alpine Lodge", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Bear Valley", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } }, { "@type": "Event", "name": "Hermitfest West – Music Festival", "startDate": "2026-09-13", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "Annual celebration featuring music and local vendors.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "Bear Valley Meadow", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Bear Valley", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } }, { "@type": "Event", "name": "Breakfast", "startDate": "2026-09-13", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "Community breakfast with various options available.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "Ebbetts Pass Moose Lodge", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Arnold", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } }, { "@type": "Event", "name": "SWCC Men's Match Play #1", "startDate": "2026-09-13", "eventAttendanceMode": "https://schema.org/OfflineEventAttendanceMode", "description": "Golf tournament event for members and guests.", "location": { "@type": "Place", "name": "Sequoia Woods Country Club", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Arnold", "addressRegion": "CA", "addressCountry": "US" } } } ] }, { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "TouristAttraction", "@id": "https://arnoldhaven.com/explore/utica-reservoir#attraction", "name": "Utica Reservoir", "alternateName": "Utica Reservoir", "description": "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.", "url": "https://arnoldhaven.com/explore/utica-reservoir", "address": { "@type": "PostalAddress", "addressLocality": "Arnold", "addressRegion": "California", "addressCountry": "US" } }, { "@type": "ItemList", "name": "Cabins near Utica Reservoir", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "CHALET BRUIN", "url": "https://arnoldhaven.com/cabins/chalet-bruin" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "KODA LOFT", "url": "https://arnoldhaven.com/cabins/koda-loft" } ] }, { "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://arnoldhaven.com/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Explore", "item": "https://arnoldhaven.com/explore" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Utica Reservoir", "item": "https://arnoldhaven.com/explore/utica-reservoir" } ] } ] } ] --- [Skip to content](#main-content) [![](/__l5e/assets-v1/84bf9984-9cf8-406b-aaf5-dbde0a9f8c6a/arnold-haven-mark-white.png)Arnold Haven Arnold · California ](/) [Cabins](/cabins)[Explore](/explore)[Guides](/guides)[Membership](/circle)[Support](/chalet-bruin-future)[Merch](/merch)[Book a stay](/cabins) ![Utica Reservoir](/assets/uticareservoir2-WdN-UmWp.webp) 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. [Check availability](/cabins)[See the cabins](/cabins) 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. ![Utica Reservoir](/assets/uticareservoirscenic-DaKxOMDF.webp) Geography ## Where Utica Reservoir sits ![Illustrated antique-style map of California inside the United States with a gold marker at Utica Reservoir, with an engraved shallow granite-rimmed reservoir dotted with rocky islets and wind-bent pines](/__l5e/assets-v1/5d240b92-3e7c-4640-9738-a5634337d172/geo-utica.jpg) Illustrated locator map — for orientation, not navigation. 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. ![Utica Reservoir History](/assets/utica_camp-DnJinF_E.webp) 03 ## SLEEP COMFORTABLY IN ARNOLD Utica Reservoir is a 50-min drive from Arnold. ![SLEEP COMFORTABLY IN ARNOLD](/assets/listing-bruin-01-B2pAs7lX.webp) ![SLEEP COMFORTABLY IN ARNOLD — second view](/assets/listing-koda-01-gAHc7NkY.webp) 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](/assets/spicerkayak-Czca_sSL.webp) ### 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](/assets/lake-alpine-ac001-e1695698168449-Duxy6KeD.webp) ### 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](/assets/utica_camp-DnJinF_E.webp) ### 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 12 Hike & 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 Sat, Sep 12 Live Music ### Hermitfest West Family-friendly festival featuring live music performances. 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM Bear Valley Meadow, Bear Valley Sat, Sep 12 Festival ### 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 12 Live 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 12 Nature ### 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 12 Community ### 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 12 Live 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 12 Live 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 13 Live Music ### Andy & Tarantula Hawk Live music performance in a scenic lodge. 1:00 PM Lake Alpine Lodge, Bear Valley Sun, Sep 13 Live 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 13 Community ### Breakfast Community breakfast with various options available. 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM Ebbetts Pass Moose Lodge, Arnold Sun, Sep 13 Live 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 - [CHALET BRUIN — 12 guests, 5 bedrooms→ ](/cabins/chalet-bruin) - [KODA LOFT — 4 guests, 2 bedrooms→ ](/cabins/koda-loft) Check live availability, see your full price, and book securely — ID check and payment are handled by Stripe. Check dates & book 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. ![](/__l5e/assets-v1/84bf9984-9cf8-406b-aaf5-dbde0a9f8c6a/arnold-haven-mark-white.png) Arnold Haven Cabin stays in Arnold, California — minutes from Calaveras Big Trees State Park, White Pines Lake and Bear Valley. [Check availability](/cabins) Cabins - [CHALET BRUIN](/cabins/chalet-bruin) - [KODA LOFT](/cabins/koda-loft) - [All cabins](/cabins) - [Check availability](/availability-search) - [About us](/about) - [Things to do](/things-to-do) - [Support Chalet Bruin](/chalet-bruin-future) - [Merch](/merch) Explore - [Arnold, CA](/explore/arnold-california) - [Big Trees State Park](/explore/big-trees-state-park) - [Murphys, CA](/explore/murphys-california) - [Bear Valley Ski Resort](/explore/bear-valley-ski-resort) - [Dodge Ridge Ski Resort](/explore/dodge-ridge-ski-resort) - [Sonora, CA](/explore/sonora-ca) - [Twain Harte, CA](/explore/twain-harte-ca) - [Strawberry, CA](/explore/strawberry-ca) - [Jackson, CA](/explore/jackson-ca) - [Columbia State Historic Park](/explore/columbia-state-historic-park) - [Black Chasm Cavern](/explore/black-chasm-cavern) - [Moaning Caverns](/explore/moaning-caverns) - [Mercer Caverns](/explore/murphys-california/mercer-caverns) - [Angels Camp, CA](/explore/angels-camp-ca) - [Mokelumne Hill](/explore/mokelumne-hill) - [San Andreas, CA](/explore/san-andreas-ca) - [Lake Alpine](/explore/lake-alpine) - [Spicer Meadow Reservoir](/explore/spicer-meadow-reservoir) - [White Pines Lake](/explore/arnold-california/white-pines-lake) - [Arnold Rim Trail](/explore/arnold-california/arnold-rim-trail) - [Sequoia Woods Country Club](/explore/arnold-california/sequoia-woods-country-club) - [Forest Meadows Golf Course](/explore/forest-meadows-golf-course) - [Highway 4 conditions](/explore/highway-4-conditions) Guides - [The Best Fishing Spots Near Arnold, CA](/guides/fishing/fishing-spots-near-arnold) - [The Best Hiking Trails Near Arnold, CA](/guides/hiking/arnold-hiking-trails) - [Dog-Friendly Hikes Near Arnold, CA](/guides/hiking/dog-friendly-hikes-near-arnold) - [Top Restaurants Near Arnold, CA](/guides/restaurants/arnold-restaurants) - [The Best Restaurants in Sonora, CA](/guides/restaurants/sonora-restaurants) - [Rock Climbing near Arnold, CA](/guides/rock-climbing/rock-climbing-spots-arnold) - [The Top Mountain Bike Trails Near Arnold, CA](/guides/mountain-biking/mountain-bike-trails-near-arnold) - [OHV and Dirt Bike Trails Near Arnold, CA](/guides/ohv/ohv-dirt-bike-trails-near-arnold) - [Rafting near Arnold](/guides/rafting/rafting-near-arnold) - [Highway 49 road trip](/guides/road-trips/highway-49-road-trip) - [Snow play near Arnold](/guides/snow-play/snow-play-near-arnold) Legal - [Privacy Policy](/privacy-policy) - [Terms & Conditions](/terms-conditions) - Cookie preferences © 2026 Arnold Haven. All rights reserved. Arnold Haven only uses cookies that keep the site working. With your permission we also load a few extras — like the Bear Valley mountain cameras — which set cookies of their own. You can decline, and change your mind at any time. [Privacy Policy](/privacy-policy) DeclineAccept All