Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five)
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
- State
- California
- Region
- West
- Getting There
- ~10 min from Portola
39.8977, -120.5026
Best Paddling in California
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Share a trip report
Sign in to write a detailed trip report for Lake Davis Recreation Area (Old Camp Five)
Sign InPaddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Lake Davis
3 other launches on this water body
Nearby Paddling
Lake Davis Recreation Area (Mallard Cove)
California · 1.1 mi
Lake Davis Recreation Area (Honker Cove)
California · 1.2 mi
Lake Davis Recreation Area (Lightning Tree)
California · 2.2 mi
Frenchman Lake (Lunker Point)
California · 15.8 mi
Gold Lake
California · 16.8 mi
Frenchman Lake
California · 16.8 mi