How do I access Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)?

Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)?

Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)?

The best time to paddle at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round

What are the water conditions at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)?

Water conditions at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) include calm, sheltered.

Is Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) good for beginners?

Yes, Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

man in red and black suit riding on orange kayak on sea during daytime

Photo by adrianna geo on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall Winter

Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)

Portola, CA · Boat Ramp · Public

Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) is a public boat ramp on Lake Davis near Portola, California. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Lake

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Boat Ramp accessing Lake Davis near Portola, California. calm and sheltered conditions.

Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) provides shoreline access to Lake Davis in California, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. Year-round is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Portola takes about 10 min, putting Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm lake waters make Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
•Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
•If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
•Morning hours offer the calmest water and best wildlife viewing on the lake.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)?: Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)?: Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)?: The best time to paddle at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)?: Water conditions at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) include calm, sheltered.
Is Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) good for beginners?: Yes, Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove) is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 39.9068, -120.4866