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Lake Don Pedro - Frequently Asked Questions

Presented below are frequently asked questions about houseboat rentals and houseboating on Lake Don Pedro. If you need additional assistance, please contact us toll-free at 888-454-8825 or click here to submit a request for more guidance. Our friendly and knowledgeable Houseboat Rental Agents are always happy to help.

What is the billing schedule?

To reserve:

  • 10% is due at time of booking, plus a $3.50 service fee per houseboat
  • 40% is due 60 days out
  • 50% is due 30 days out
  • $3.50 service fee due at time of booking
  • Fuel deposit due 60 days out, any extra fuel charges due on arrival

Cancellations (per item):

All money is non-refundable once paid

It’s always a good time to go houseboating! Summer (between Memorial Day and Labor Day) is the most popular and is the busiest season. However, fall offers Indian Summer days with cooler nights. View a month-by-month list of temperatures here: Average Temperatures.


The maximum capacity on the 50’ houseboats is up to 8 people while the houseboat is in motion.

The maximum capacity on houseboats 56’ or larger is up to 12 people while the houseboat is in motion. This is a regulation set by the Coast Guard.

Groups can comply with this rule by bringing or renting a powerboat for additional members of their party. There are no restrictions once the houseboat is moored to shore.


To rent from Lake Don Pedro marina, the renter must be at least 21 years of age with a valid drivers license.


Pets are allowed on all houseboats for a $100 one-time fee per pet.


There is no special licensing or prior experience required to operate these houseboat rentals; just a valid drivers' license. The marina staff will go over operations and regulations in an orientation upon your arrival.

Marina staff will also pilot you in and out of the marina itself; you'll take over on open water.


The cost of a houseboat vacation is based on a few variables: what time of year you plan to visit, what size of houseboat, how long of a trip, etc. See our Pricing Page for more details. Rental pricing is "dynamic" meaning these are starting rates. Rates may increase based on availability, and several other factors. Prices are not guaranteed until your reservation is confirmed.


Generally, people reserve about 6-9 months in advance. But it's always a good idea to make a reservation as soon as you're ready, especially if you have specific dates in mind or if you're planning a trip over a holiday weekend or on a special promotion.


Give us a call at 888-454-8825. Our reservation agents are happy to check availability or confirm your vacation.

Alternatively, you may Contact Us Online with your availability request, and one of our agents will get back to you with the information you need.


To reserve:

  • 10% is due at time of booking, plus a $3.50 service fee per houseboat
  • 40% is due 60 days out
  • 50% is due 30 days out
  • $3.50 service fee due at time of booking
  • Fuel deposit due 60 days out, any extra fuel charges due on arrival

Cancellations (per item):

All money is non-refundable once paid


Basics such as cookware and serve-ware (pots, plans, plates, glasses, utensils, etc.) come equipped on the houseboat. You are responsible for bringing all of your food, beverages, and spices down to salt and pepper.

More specifics can be accessed on the houseboat page under Amenities and Items Provided. There will also be more included in the attachments of your confirmation email.


Fuel is not included in the houseboat rental. Like a rental car, you'll pick up the houseboat full and you'll be responsible for the final refueling at the end of your trip to pay for what you've used.

Typically, we recommend that you budget about $100 per day for fuel. Of course, it may be more or less based on how much you drive the houseboat each day and how much you run the generator.


Linens are included on all houseboat rentals. This includes:

  • a fitted sheet
  • top sheet
  • blanket
  • pillow and case
  • bath towels

You will need to provide your own beach towels.


Houseboat

Check-in

Return

70' Sequoia 

1:30 p.m

9:00 a.m.

70' Monticello

1:30 p.m.

9:00 a.m.

60' Freedom

 2:30 p.m.

10:00 a.m.

56' Gold Rush

3:00 p.m.

10:30 a.m.

50' Carmel

3:30 p.m.

11:00 a.m.

50' Tuolumne

3:30 p.m. 

11:00 a.m.

 


If you arrive at the marina after hours, the marina staff will leave your name and houseboat number on the office door with information about where it’s docked.

You can load the houseboat and sleep on it that night in the marina, then go through the check in and orientation process the next morning before you go out on the water.

For an additional cost, Early Boarding the evening prior to your trip may be an option based on availability. Give us a call at 888-454-8825 for details.


Lake Don Pedro is located about 40 miles east of Modesto, CA. See our Map & Directions page to view a map and directions to the Lake Don Pedro area.

Lake Don Pedro Marina
11500 Bonds Flat Rd, La Grange CA 95329

*The above address is for driving directions only. Do not mail payments to this address


The nearest grocery store is in Sonora, CA, about 30 minutes away from the marina.

The marina has a marina store stocked with limited convenience items and ice.

You will want to come fully prepared with all groceries as there are no grocery or restaurant opportunities along the lake.


Yes! There is fishing at Lake Don Pedro!

There are a variety of fish found in these waters including: Bass, Salmon, Rainbow Trout, Crappie, Catfish and Bluegill.

The marina store sells a variety of bait and tackle

A California state fishing license is required and will allow you to fish anywhere on Lake Don Pedro. Be sure to purchase a license online ahead of time, or you may purchase one at the marina.


Seasickness is very uncommon on fresh water because the lake is mostly calm and houseboats are wider and more stable than smaller boats. However, if you get sick easily we recommend that you take necessary precautions.


No, Lake Don Pedro is still a prime houseboating destination with more than enough water to enjoy all the same houseboating, powerboating and water activities you’ve enjoyed in years past.