Operated by Sweetwater Authority

Location

Loveland Reservoir is located within the remote hills south of Alpine. Take I-8 to Tavern Road, go south. Tavern Road becomes Japutal Road. Go past the Sycuan Truck Trail three-quarters of a mile to the parking lot.

History

Construction of the dam was completed in 1945 and formed a second reservoir feeding off of the Sweetwater River. The reservoir was used solely for water storage until 1996 when a land exchange between Sweetwater Authority and U.S. Forest Service provided the Authority with control over land adjacent to the reservoir. A parking lot and trail were constructed and the reservoir was opened to the public for fishing January 14, 1997.

Facilities and Camping Info

Loveland is currently open for shoreline fishing only. There are no facilities at the lake, and camping is not permitted.

Hours, Fees and Boating info

The lake is open everyday from sunrise to sunset. Daily permits are not required to fish at the lake, however a valid state fishing license is required and all county, state and federal regulations are enforced. There are no boats, floats, canoes, kayaks or float tubes allowed, and water contact including wading is not permitted.

Fishing Information

As of the opening date only a five mile stretch of the east shore line is open for fishing. It is recommended that you pack lightly. You will need to hike a little ways from the parking lot through rocks and brush. And the shore line is less than even, so expect a bit of a challenge. Largemouth bass to 16 lbs or more, channel catfish, bullheads, bluegill and red-ear sunfish. Limits are five for bass, 10 for channel and bullhead catfish, and no limit for bluegill and red-ear sunfish. Please Support --CATCH AND RELEASE--Let the fish go so you or someone else can catch them next time.

Special Regulations

Please stay in designated areas and respect the sensitive environment present at Loveland Reservoir. Fishing access is limited to posted areas between sunrise and sunset only. No alcohol, fires, glass bottles or containers, dogs, firearms or cleaning of fish at the lake.

For more information about Loveland's fishing program call 619-422-8395, ext.2222.
For more information visit Sweetwater Authorities' Loveland Reservoir Page!