Rancho Seco Recreational Area.

Rancho Seco Recreational Park is a recreational area located in the California Central Valley near the Rancho Seco Nuclear Generating Station in Herald, California. It is open to the public for camping, fishing, hiking and water activities. Boats are restricted to outboard electric motors which improves the lake's use as a swimming hole. The lake is fed by the Folsom South Canal.

Description (As provided by Rancho Seco brochure)

The parks 160 acre Lake, fed by the Folsom South Canal, is maintained at a constant level year round. You can launch an electric motor boat, row boat or sailboat from either of the two boat ramps.

Cast a fishing line from one of the six fishing docks the freshwater lakes Sports bass, blue gill, red ear Sunfish, crappy, and catfish. SMUD also stocks the lake with rainbow trout and host an annual spring Trout Derby. Those 16 years or older must have a valid California fishing license.

Meander along the north edge of the lake out into open grassland on the Howard Ranch trail. The Seven Mile Loop is a dirt Trail for walking Pleasures please leave the dogs horses and bikes at home. The beauty of the terrain changes with the season.

The the parks warm water lake is a windsurfers Haven. Be consistent wind direction and non-existence of jet skiers and speed boats makes it ideally suited for novices.

The park is a winter refuge for ducks, geese, hawks, bald eagles, blue heron and migratory Birds. There are usually plenty of ducks to feed year-round. Observe exotic, captive wildlife at the parks Amanda Blake Memorial Wildlife Refuge, a 75 acre grass a compound.

Sleep out under the stars or pitch a tent in one of the 12 Lakeside campsites. Each campsite has a BBQ ,picnic table, firepit and drinking water.

Spend a few days and nights with us and one of the 18 RV campsites located along the southwestern rim of the park.  Each site has a barbecue, fire pit, picnic table, drinking water and electrical outlets. A dump station is conveniently located near the maintenance office.

Group Camp overs and special events are welcome. Reservations are required.

The lake is roped off for swimming along a 36,000 square foot Sandy Beach. Children should always be supervised by a responsible adult.

Shaded grassy picnic areas adorn the lakes southern shore. Picnic tables and barbecues are available on a first-come basis. Picnic areas may be reserved for groups. Reservations are required. Picnic tables and barbecues are also available in our day use area year round.