person in black shirt and black shorts riding on white and red kayak on blue sea
Photo by Mick Haupt on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingSUPKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

LakeCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five)

Portola, CA · Boat Ramp · Public

Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five) 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

Launch into Lake Davis near Portola, California. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five) is a public access point on Lake Davis in California, giving paddlers a convenient entry to the lake.

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 (Old Camp Five) 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 (Old Camp Five) ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

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 (Old Camp Five)?
Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five) is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five)?
Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five) 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 (Old Camp Five)?
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 (Old Camp Five)?
The best time to paddle at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five) is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five)?
Water conditions at Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five) include calm, sheltered.
Is Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five) good for beginners?
Yes, Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five) 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: 39.8977, -120.5026

Quick Facts

Region
West
Getting There
~10 min from Portola
Get Directions

39.8977, -120.5026

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