Lake Yosemite

Nestled in the rolling foothills of the majestic Sierra Nevada, at the eastern sections of Merced, California is Lake Yosemite.  Though man-made, this reservoir exudes with an exquisite beauty that can offer just as picturesque sceneries.  Its sparkling waters bring about a more artistic touch to everything from the skies to the surrounding richness of the golden shoreline peppered with figs and blackberries here and there.  Other than being a truly lovely sight to behold, it continually supports the regions thriving agriculture industry while indulging the recreational needs of its visitors young and old.

In 1988 a reservoir, named after one of the grandest showpieces of Nature—the Yosemite National Park, was built to continually supply the farms of Merced County.  450 acres of water is distributed throughout the county to nourish the lands as well as the industry.  Owned by the Merced Irrigation District, its main purpose which was irrigation for local growers bore fruitful as agriculture in the areas has continued to be bountiful.

Lake Yosemite, although not carved by glaciers, has become a well-loved scenic spot where tourists and locals alike stop by to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of its waters and surrounding land which offers a good dose of fun.  At some secluded areas of the lake sightings of inhabiting wildlife like coyotes, muskrats, cows, and many different species of bird is common.

A park operated by the County of Merced allows visitors to rent out various facilities like the Fish and Game Building, Scout Island, Rotary Cove I, Rotary Cove II and Veteran’s Cove.  These accommodate guests affording them to spend time enjoying all the recreational activities in store or simply enjoy the peaceful scenes of a splendid stretch of water and all the graceful sails that glide through.

The reservoir is home to the LYSA or Lake Yosemite Sailing Association that was founded on the same year that the lake was built.  Thursday evenings of summer months have never been the same as this local club enlivens the nights with excitement through staging regattas.  This series of sailboat races is hosted by the club.  LYSA is also known for organizing sailing trips to neighboring bays and lakes in California.

The fun doesn’t end as kids and teens can also enjoy Lake Yosemite through joining sailing camps.  Campers will surely have fun under the sun learning the ropes of sailing.  Other recreations that can be enjoyed by kids and adults are water skiing, kayaking, and other water activities.