Calero Reservoir, body of water
Calero Reservoir is a man-made lake in Santa Clara County, California, formed by an earthen dam that captures runoff from the surrounding mountains and canyons. The lake sits within a county park that includes trails for hiking, equestrian use, and picnic areas along the shoreline.
The reservoir was created in 1935 following a voter-approved water plan from 1933, drawn up to secure reliable water sources during the Great Depression. The dam was built to collect runoff from the hills and supply the growing communities of the Santa Clara Valley.
The park around the reservoir is used by hikers, equestrians, and families who come regularly to enjoy the trails along the water's edge. Boating is permitted on the lake, which gives the area a relaxed, outdoor character on weekends.
The park around the reservoir is open for hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking, but swimming is not allowed to protect water quality. Anyone planning to bring a boat should check the current rules in advance, as not all watercraft are permitted.
The dam is currently undergoing a seismic retrofit to make it more resistant to earthquakes, a project that also aims to restore its full storage capacity. The work reflects how earthquake preparedness shapes water infrastructure decisions in this part of California.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
