Top 7 Lakes around Antioch
Best lakes around Antioch, California, are situated in a region characterized by its diverse natural landscapes and significant water access points, including the San Joaquin River. The area provides various recreational opportunities centered around its reservoirs and shorelines. These locations offer settings for activities such as fishing, hiking, and boating. Antioch's proximity to these water bodies makes it a notable destination for outdoor activities.
Best lakes around Antioch
- The most popular lakes is Contra Loma Reservoir, a lake that…
Last updated: April 29, 2026
Contra Loma Reservoir
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Big Break Regional Shoreline
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Lower Sherman Island Boat Launch and Kitesurfing Area
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Oak Savannah Trail
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Eagle Ridge Trail
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Tips from the Community
The Big Break Regional Shoreline is a scenic park located in Oakley. Covering over 1,600 acres, it offers a diverse natural environment with marshes, wetlands, and waterways. A great way to enjoy the area and spot various bird species is during a hike along the Big Break Trail.
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Contra Loma Reservoir is an 80-acre reservoir located in Contra Loma Regional Park that offers year-round fishing and summer swimming. Additionally, there are hiking and biking trails around the reservoir.
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Eagle Ridge Trail ascends up to the top of a ridge that's more like a windswept hill, from where you can have beautiful vistas of Los Vaqueros and its wide open spaces, the lake, and the windmills from far away. There is an entrance fee to access the facilities of Los Vaqueros Reservoir, for more information access: https://www.ccwater.com/194/Fees.
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Oak Savannah Trail begins by ascending a hill which delivers a panoramic overview of the lake in the middle of Los Vaqueros. It is a wide open path, that runs through the grassland, meeting the boundaries of Round Valley Regional Preserve. There is an entrance fee to access the facilities of Los Vaqueros Reservoir, for more information access: https://www.ccwater.com/194/Fees.
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Here is a small state park with campground and boatramp. There is parking and a lawn for kite construction and start. The path to the water along two one-way paths (100 m) is padded with old carpets. Food and drinks must be brought.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main recreational activities available at lakes and water bodies near Antioch?
The lakes and water bodies near Antioch offer a variety of recreational activities. At Contra Loma Reservoir, you can enjoy year-round fishing, summer swimming in a lifeguarded lagoon, hiking, biking, and boating with electric motors. The Antioch/Oakley Regional Shoreline is popular for fishing from its 550-foot pier and kite flying. Other nearby reservoirs like Los Vaqueros are known for fishing and various water sports.
Are there good hiking opportunities around the lakes near Antioch?
Yes, there are excellent hiking opportunities. Contra Loma Regional Park features a 3.25-mile flat loop around the reservoir, as well as more challenging hillside trails with panoramic views. The Antioch Community Park Trail to Contra Loma Reservoir offers scenic views and varied terrain. For more hiking options, you can explore guides like Easy hikes around Antioch or Hiking around Antioch, which include routes like the West Shore and East Shore Trail Loop.
Which lakes are family-friendly near Antioch?
Contra Loma Regional Park is highly family-friendly, offering a swim lagoon with a sandy beach, picnic areas, and easy trails. Big Break Regional Shoreline is also suitable for families, with opportunities for bird watching and easy walks along the Big Break Trail. The Antioch/Oakley Regional Shoreline provides picnic tables and is a popular spot for kite flying.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes and trails in the Antioch area?
Many trails at Contra Loma Regional Park are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy walks with your pet. Always check specific park regulations for leash requirements and restricted areas before your visit.
What are the best times to visit the lakes around Antioch?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, making it ideal for hiking. Summer is perfect for swimming at the lifeguarded lagoon in Contra Loma Regional Park. Fishing is available year-round at Contra Loma Reservoir, and the Antioch/Oakley Regional Shoreline pier is open 24/7, with fishing opportunities varying by season.
Are there opportunities for swimming at the lakes near Antioch?
Yes, Contra Loma Regional Park features a lifeguarded swim lagoon with a sandy beach that operates during the summer months. It also has changing facilities and an accessible pool lift.
Where can I go fishing near Antioch?
Fishing is a popular activity in the area. Contra Loma Reservoir offers year-round fishing for catfish, bass, bluegill, and stocked trout. A Daily Fishing Access Permit is required. The Antioch/Oakley Regional Shoreline has a 550-foot fishing pier on the San Joaquin River, where you can catch striped bass, channel catfish, and more, depending on the season. A state fishing license is required for those aged 16 or older. Other options include Los Vaqueros Reservoir, known for inland salmon and trout.
Are there any cycling routes near the lakes in Antioch?
Yes, the area offers cycling routes. You can find various options in guides like Cycling around Antioch, which includes routes such as the Marsh Creek Regional Trail and the Delta de Anza and Mokelumne Trail Loop. These routes provide opportunities to cycle through the natural landscapes surrounding the lakes and waterways.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
The natural areas around Antioch's lakes are home to diverse wildlife. At Contra Loma Regional Park, you might spot jackrabbits, turtles, and various birds like the Black Phoebe. Big Break Regional Shoreline, with its marshes and wetlands, is particularly known for bird watching.
Is there parking and public transport access for Contra Loma Regional Park?
Contra Loma Regional Park has numerous picnic areas, some of which can be reserved, implying parking facilities. For detailed information on parking fees, permits, and public transport options, it's best to check the official East Bay Regional Park District website or the park's specific page.
What is the Antioch/Oakley Regional Shoreline known for?
The Antioch/Oakley Regional Shoreline is primarily known for its 550-foot fishing pier on the San Joaquin River, which is open 24 hours a day, year-round. It's a popular spot for anglers and also for kite flying, offering scenic river views and picnic areas. You can find more details on the National Park Service website: Antioch/Oakley Regional Shoreline.
Are there any other notable reservoirs or lakes further from Antioch worth visiting?
While a bit further afield, Los Vaqueros Reservoir is recognized for its inland salmon and trout fishing. Lake Berryessa, about 36 miles from Antioch, is one of California's largest freshwater lakes, offering extensive natural beauty and diverse recreational activities, including various water sports and fishing.
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