About Location

Santa Margarita Lake Park was created with the construction of the Salinas Dam in 1941, originally serving to provide water for Camp San Luis Obispo. Today, the lake functions as the drinking water reservoir for the City of San Luis Obispo, which means swimming is not permitted. Beyond the developed areas of the park lies the Santa Margarita Lake Natural Area, encompassing several thousand acres of designated open space managed for its natural resource values, passive recreational use, and environmental education opportunities. This expansive natural area welcomes hikers, bicyclists, and equestrians, while motor vehicles are not permitted. As a nature lover’s retreat, the park offers a pristine environment where countless species of plants and wildlife thrive, making it an ideal location for nature study, boating, and fishing.