Stevens Creek Reservoir

Stevens Creek Reservoir is an artificial water storage area within a large county park near Cupertino, surrounded by the foothills of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The body of water covers a substantial area designed for recreation, with walking trails and viewpoints throughout the surrounding grounds.

The reservoir was built in 1935 by the Santa Clara Valley Water District to serve the region's growing water needs. It was later strengthened and expanded, reflecting changes in how the area managed its water supply.

The reservoir bears the name of Captain Elijah Stephens, who led the first wagon train across the Sierra Nevada mountains in 1844.

You can explore the area by walking, cycling, or picnicking on various trails of different difficulty levels. Access is straightforward, and spring offers the most pleasant conditions with good weather and active vegetation.

The water supports several fish species, including steelhead that have adapted to living inland without ocean access. These fish normally migrate to the sea, making their presence here an unexpected feature of this artificial reservoir.

Location: Santa Clara County

GPS coordinates: 37.29191,-122.08096

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:08