September 8, 2026 - SONORA, Calif. — The Bureau of Reclamation will adjust operating hours at New Melones Lake beginning Sept. 8, as part of its seasonal transition. As temperatures cool and visitation decreases, Reclamation encourages visitors to plan ahead for updated access hours, boating requirements and available recreation services. 

Boating and Mussel Prevention
Reclamation requires that all boats launching at New Melones Lake participate in a mandatory 30-day quarantine or make a reservation through New Melones Lake Marina to receive a decontamination wash to prevent the introduction of golden mussels, an invasive species found in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. To learn more about golden mussels, visit www.usbr.gov/mp/golden-mussels.html. 

Fall and Winter Boat Launch Hours 
Glory Hole Point
•    6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday (Sept. 8 to Nov. 1)
•    8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday (Nov. 2 through spring) 
•    6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday through Sunday and federal holidays 
Tuttletown
•    Closed
•    For information about boating and fishing, visit: New Melones Lake - Boating and Fishing. 
•    For decontamination information, email: pr@newmeloneslakemarina.com or visit Home - New Melones Lake Marina Mussel Decontamination. 

Tip: Boaters should confirm ramp closing times with operators to avoid delays or a second quarantine period.

Glory Hole Recreation Area
•    Entrance gate open from 4 a.m. to 9 p.m.
•    Campgrounds reservable at Glory Hole Recreation Area, New Melones Lake - Recreation.gov 
•    Day-use areas open sunrise to sunset

Tuttletown Recreation Area
•    Entrance gate open from 4 a.m. to 9 p.m.
•    Campgrounds closed
•    Day-use areas open sunrise to sunset

Natural Bridges and Other Outlying Day-Use Areas
•    Open sunrise to sunset
•    Parking is often limited 
•    Follow all posted signage
•    Pack out all waste

New Melones Lake Administration and Visitor Center
•    The visitor center and museum are closed.
•    The administration building is typically open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, except federal holidays. 
•    America the Beautiful Interagency passes and New Melones Lake Annual Day Use and Boat Launch passes are available at the administration building. 

Tip: Prior to arrival, it is recommended to call the office phone number to confirm that day’s operating hours.

For more information about activities, fees, maps, and updates, visit the New Melones website www.usbr.gov/mp/ccao/newmelones/index.html, call 209-459-7290 or email BOR-NewMelonesRec@usbr.gov.

Source: USBR