Donnells Reservoir
Donnell Reservoir is located in a steep rocky canyon of the Middle Fork Stanislaus
River approximately 5 miles upstream from Beardsley
Reservoir, 7 miles from Highway 108 off Beardsley Road on 5N09X (the 4,700'
road), a narrow and winding route where safe travel speeds average 0-15 mph.
No facilities are provided for boating. The steep rocky terrain limits foot
access to only small portions of the shoreline. No developed recreation facilities
exist at the reservoir, however the area is popular for day use, dispersed
camping and fishing. The reservoir is open all year with road access subject
to winter closure.
Donnell Reservoir visitors can enjoy the following:
- Dispersed Camping
- Donnell Vista: tables, vault toilets, picnicking, nature trail and scenic
overlook of Donnell Reservoir and the Dardanelles. A ΒΌ mile paved trail with
signs along the way, leads to an overlook with sweeping views of the Middle
Fork Stanislaus River Canyon and Donnell Reservoir. On Highway 108 about 18
miles east of Pinecrest.
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Trailheads along Fence Creek Road at Wheats Meadow and County Line provide
access to the Carson-Iceberg Wilderness.