Miramar Reservoir in San Diego. Courtesy photo: City of San Diego

By SDCN Editor

San Diego, CA–As the Independence Day weekend arrives, the City of San Diego reminds everyone that its reservoirs offer a great variety of outdoor fun and recreation. 

All city reservoirs except Barrett and Hodges will be fully open on Monday, July 4.

Families can picnic, anglers can take advantage of great fishing and everyone can bask in the serenity of the reservoirs and surrounding areas. Besides many water activities available, visitors to city reservoirs can enjoy walking, bicycling, and hiking in the areas.

“Summer is a fantastic time of year to visit the city’s reservoirs and enjoy the great outdoors,” said Juan Guerreiro, Director of the Public Utilities Department. “There are many recreational activities available that provide fun for people of all ages.” 

The city offers recreational activities at nine reservoirs: Barrett, El Capitan, Hodges, Miramar, Murray, Upper and Lower Otay, San Vicente, and Sutherland. Hodges Reservoir is currently closed for boating and fishing due to a repair project on its dam. However, San Dieguito River Park trails and facilities around Hodges remain open.

While not sponsored by the city, there are two special community events on July 4, held at city reservoirs: The Lake Murray Fireworks and Musicfest as well as the Scripps Ranch Old Pros’ Fourth of July Run and Ride at Miramar Reservoir.

Since 1913, the city has offered public recreational use of its reservoirs, which are part of the City’s municipal water supply system and operated by the Public Utilities Department. Several fee changes took effect for various activities at reservoirs on July 1. 

For details and other information about city reservoirs, including available activities, regulations, and hours of operation, visit sandiego.gov/reservoirs-lakes.