Bard Lake, reservoir in Simi Valley, California, US

Bard Lake is a large reservoir in Simi Valley, California, spanning about 231 acres and held back by an earthen dam standing approximately 416 feet high. The lake is managed by the Calleguas Water District and has a storage capacity of around 11,000 acre-feet, with access restricted by a surrounding fence.

The reservoir was constructed in 1965 to address the growing need for reliable water sources in Simi Valley and nearby communities. Since its creation, it has served as a key infrastructure component for storing and supplying water to local populations.

Bard Lake is also called Wood Ranch Reservoir, after the Wood Ranch area on the Simi Valley side. The water is held for the Calleguas Water District, and the fenced shoreline keeps the reservoir itself closed to the public. Birders instead watch the adjacent Sunset Hills Open Space, where white-tailed kites, northern harriers and Anna's hummingbirds have been recorded.

Bard Lake is fenced off, but the adjacent Sunset Hills Open Space, a 410-acre preserve, has hiking trails. The terrain is exposed and dry, so bring water and avoid midday heat in summer.

The reservoir is also known as Wood Ranch Reservoir and sits directly on the border between Simi Valley and Thousand Oaks. This location makes it a geographic meeting point between two communities, allowing visitors to traverse between the two areas.