San Luis Reservoir

San Luis Reservoir is a water storage facility in Merced County, California, that stretches across the eastern slopes of the Diablo Range. The artificial body of water reaches a length of about 9 miles (14 km) and a width of about 5 miles (8 km), surrounded by dry hills and grassland.

The reservoir was built during the 1960s by the Bureau of Reclamation and began operations in 1969. The facility was created as part of California's water supply project to move water from the wetter north to the drier south.

The reservoir supplies farms in the Central Valley with water and plays a key role in California's water distribution system. Visitors often see large pumps and pipelines that belong to the infrastructure and emphasize the technical character of the facility.

The recreation area offers multiple entry points with parking lots, campgrounds, and picnic areas for visitors. Anglers and boaters find ramps and docks along the shoreline, though conditions may vary depending on water levels.

A hydroelectric plant uses the elevation difference between the main basin and a smaller forebay to generate electricity for the nearby town of Los Banos. Water is pumped in both directions depending on demand, allowing the reservoir to function as an energy storage system.

Location: Merced County

GPS coordinates: 37.06790,-121.08100

Latest update: December 20, 2025 12:12