How do I access New Melones Lake (Glory Hole)?

New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at New Melones Lake (Glory Hole)?

New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at New Melones Lake (Glory Hole)?

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

When is the best time to visit New Melones Lake (Glory Hole)?

The best time to paddle at New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round

What are the water conditions at New Melones Lake (Glory Hole)?

Water conditions at New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) include calm, sheltered.

Is New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) good for beginners?

Yes, New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) 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.

a body of water surrounded by trees and rocks

Photo by Samantha Hare on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

ReservoirCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParkingRestrooms

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall Winter

New Melones Lake (Glory Hole)

Angels Camp, CA · Boat Ramp · Public

New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) is a public boat ramp on New Melones Reservoir near Angels Camp, California. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Best visited in spring and summer and fall and winter.

At a Glance

Water Body

Reservoir

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

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

About This Location

Launch into New Melones Reservoir near Angels Camp, California. Beginner level with calm and sheltered water.

New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) provides access to New Melones Reservoir in California, a reservoir offering calm waters for paddling.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Western paddling spans coastal waters, mountain lakes, and everything in between.

Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for Year-round. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and restrooms.

At about 5 min from Angels Camp, New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Angels Camp area.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm reservoir waters make New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Early morning and late evening are prime times for calm water and fishing.
•Water levels can fluctuate significantly — check current levels before your trip.
•The upper arms of reservoirs are often calmer than the main body.
•Bring extra sunscreen — reservoirs offer little shade on the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access New Melones Lake (Glory Hole)?: New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) is a public boat ramp in California. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at New Melones Lake (Glory Hole)?: New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at New Melones Lake (Glory Hole)?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, restrooms. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit New Melones Lake (Glory Hole)?: The best time to paddle at New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) is during spring and summer and fall and winter. Year-round
What are the water conditions at New Melones Lake (Glory Hole)?: Water conditions at New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) include calm, sheltered.
Is New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) good for beginners?: Yes, New Melones Lake (Glory Hole) 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: 37.9959, -120.5408