State Hydrology Overview

California Lake Water Levels & Conditions

WaterLakeLevel currently monitors 3 verified lakes and reservoirs across California. As of this week, 3 of 3 monitored basins are recording surface elevations below their historical 25th calendar percentile, indicating localized low-water storage and selective boat ramp closures.

Monitoring Agencies: U.S. Bureau of Reclamation / USGS • U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (Central Valley Project) • U.S. Bureau of Reclamation (Solano Project)
3
Verified Stations
California Registry
3
Below 25th %ile
Drought / Drawdown Watch
3
Managing Authorities
Verified operating entities

Verified Waterbodies in California

California Reservoir Operations & Measurement Notes

In California, reservoir elevations are monitored by automated telemetry stations operated by the USGS in partnership with regional river authorities and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Observations are recorded in the NGVD29 vertical datum.

Recreational boaters in California should note that reservoir elevations fluctuate significantly between spring thunderstorm recharge cycles and late-summer agricultural and municipal demands. Always confirm boat ramp clearances and active wind advisories before towing watercraft.

Recommended Tools for California Boaters

Is My Lake Level Normal? Historical Percentile Checker

Compare today's lake elevation to historical records from the same calendar window across past decades.