News Release Archive

Lake Berryessa's Oak Shores Area Reopens to Water Access

Media Contact: Pete Lucero, 916-978-5100, plucero@usbr.gov

For Release: September 17, 2009

The Bureau of Reclamation announces that on Saturday, September 19, 2009, the Oak Shores Area at Lake Berryessa will be reopened to swimming.  The reopening is associated with the public campground and day-use areas of Oak Shores.  The area was temporarily closed to water access on Saturday, September 12, 2009, out of concern for public safety.  Three people recently drowned in the area.

As indicated in the Park Rules and other information, there is no lifeguard on duty.  Swimmers enter the water at their own risk. Reclamation does, however, operate a free life jacket-loaner program and provides free public information on water safety at the Water Education Center located within Oak Shores.

Visitors are further cautioned that lower reservoir levels have resulted in steep drop-offs from the shoreline.  Lower reservoir levels have also exposed offshore islands that appear deceptively close.  Because of these conditions, visitors - especially children - are strongly encouraged to wear life vests if entering the water.  Visitors are further discouraged from attempting to swim to exposed islands away from the shore.  Swimmers may easily find themselves in distress in very deep water.  Visitors are also reminded that it is unsafe to swim in any area if they have consumed alcohol.

For additional information, please contact Park Manager Janet Rogers, Lake Berryessa Field Office, at  707-966-2111, or e-mail jrogers@usbr.gov.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.