New Melones Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the lake?

From Central California: Take Highway 108 east from Modesto, then 49 north or Highway 4 east from Stockton, and stay on 49 south through downtown Angels Camp, look for a sign on the right for the "Glory Hole Recreation Area" (at Glory Hole Sports), turn right at that sign onto Whittle Road (which turns into Glory Hole Road) and follow the signs down to New Melones Lake Marina, (exactly five miles from Highway 49). There will be a left turn lane for the marina turn-off, the only one on Glory Hole Road.

From Sacramento: Take Highway 99 south to just past Galt. Then take the Liberty Road exit and turn left, heading east. At the stop sign at Highway 88 turn right. That dead ends at Highway 12, turn left and head east to the foothills. Highway 12 transitions into Highway 49 south in San Andreas. Continue on Highway 49 on through downtown Angels Camp, and at about a half mile beyond city limits there is a sign on the right for the "Glory Hole Recreation Area" (at Glory Hole Sports), turn right at that sign onto Whittle Road (which turns into Glory Hole Road) and follow the signs down to New Melones Lake Marina, exactly five miles from Highway 49. There will be a left turn lane for the marina turn-off, the only one on Glory Hole Road.

Click Here to view a map of the Lake New Melones area.

What will the water temperature be like during my trip?

For detailed air and water temperature information, view a month-by-month list of Temperatures here.

What is the Lake New Melones like?

First filled in 1983, New Melones Lake has 12,500 surface acres when full and more than 100 miles of scenic shoreline to explore. The lake is framed by topography ranging from the rugged Stanislaus River Canyon cliffs to oak-studded golden Sierra foothills. Fishermen number New Melones Lake among their favorites for its excellent trout, bass, crappie and catfish action. Something's always biting.

Hundreds of wildlife species including deer, fox, coyote, beaver, otter, and raccoon can be seen along New Melones Lake's shore. Up above, eagles, heron, hawks, cormorant and grebe are common sights. The lake also features a mountain bike trail with easy access and parking.

How difficult is driving a houseboat?

Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. The marina staff will walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hang of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes.

*Note: Boats at this lake will only be rented to persons 25 years of age or older with a valid drivers license.

How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?

Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It's helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you're most interested in when you call.

Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.

How early do I need to reserve?

Earlier is better. If you're planning a trip during a holiday weekend like Memorial Day, it's best to get a reservation six months or more in advance. This also applies to any trips during the summer, which is peak season. Mid-week trips or off-season dates are often available as little as a few weeks beforehand. Even during the summer or holidays, though, there is always the possibility of a cancellation that may open up a time frame or houseboat model that you desire so don't hesitate to call at the last minute.

What do I need to know before I take my houseboat out on the lake?

On the date of departure, the Captain and Co-Captain will watch a 20 minute training video and then go through a 30 minute (+) orientation before taking the houseboat rental out.

Can I bring my pet?

Pets are allowed for no extra fee.

Do I need a license to operate your houseboats, or is a skipper provided?

There is no special license needed to operate our houseboats. There are rules for operating houseboats on the waterways, and we will explain them to you upon your arrival.

All charter parties receive a personal orientation, so please plan your guest's arrival accordingly. In addition, we will drive your houseboat out of the marina and then dock it for your upon your return. Once you are on the wide open lake, you'll find driving a houseboat quite easy. Most of our boats have a flying bridge, so you may pilot the vessel from the top deck or main cabin. We provide you a safety and orientation DVD of the training you receive, so you can brush up once you are out on the lake. And you can call us via cell phone with any questions while on your trip.

How old do you have to be to rent a boat?

Charter Captain and Co-Captain must be at least twenty-five (25) years old.

How many people can a houseboat sleep, and who do most invite?

Depending on the model you rent, and the location you choose, our houseboats comfortably sleep from ten to twenty-two people. You can even bring extra guests and they can throw out a sleeping bag and sleep under the stars. There is plenty of room inside and out for dining, dancing, fishing, sunbathing, and relaxing. You will be provided a life vest for each guest. Generally groups are made up of family, extended family, & friends. Family reunions, business and church group retreats, and "men only" or "ladies only" are all popular. Houseboating appeals to all ages and interests!

How safe are the houseboats for children?

Our vessels were designed with kids in mind. Our boats have safety latches on all gates, and sliding glass doors. All of our houseboats are equipped with a 3 foot railing around both the upper and lower decks for both safety and privacy. We have child-sized PFD's (personal flotation devices) available at all marinas.

Will I get seasick on a houseboat?

Houseboats are on pontoons and there is very little motion. Seasickness is basically unheard of on fresh water.

What is the best time of year to go houseboating?

It is always a good time to go houseboating! Summer is the most popular and busiest season. Fall offers Indian Summer days and cooler nights. Springtime is good for viewing abundant wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Winter is favorable for the anglers, when fishing is at its best. And the rates are significantly lower between September and May. All our vessels are climate-controlled with air-conditioning and heaters-some even have a fireplace!

Can I fish from the houseboat?

Yes! Fishing is a favorite activity for houseboaters. There are several species of fish at every location, including bass, salmon, crappie, trout, catfish, and even sturgeon! The type of fish that are 'running' will depend on the season, the weather, water temp, the moon, etc.

All marina stores sell a good variety of bait and tackle for optimizing your chances of catching fish, whether you're a novice or expert.

What equipment is on board?

You will see many of our houseboats are equipped with hot tubs, water slides, surround sound entertainment systems, fireplaces, private staterooms with comfortable beds, generators, and much much more. Full kitchen galleys include refrigerators with ice and water dispensers, trash compactors, dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, blenders, toasters, and coffee makers. Most people don't realize just how luxurious houseboating is!

What is there to do?

Our luxurious vessels have all - and sometimes more - of the comforts of home. With tracking satellite and state-of-the-art sound systems, you can watch your favorite sporting event or movie. The fully equipped gourmet galleys provide the perfect venue for preparing memorable feasts - a definite highlight of houseboating!

The photo opportunities of your loved ones enjoying nature and watersports and the picturesque landscape and breathtaking sunsets are endless.

There is a multitude of recreational opportunities at each location. Choose from swimming, hiking the trails, fishing, water-skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, kayaking, boating, visiting local caverns, dam tours and dining out. Many of the lakes offer mountain biking trails, so bring your bike for exploring the shore. There are nearby historic towns for shopping and site-seeing, and golf courses are near to each of our locations.

Sometimes there is an event taking place at the lake, or nearby, such as a fishing tournament, poker run, or concert.

Or simply relax with a book, lounge in the sun, soak in the hot tub, enjoy a board game, or watch a movie in the comfort of your houseboat.

What is the best thing about houseboating?

The utter and complete relaxation. Being with friends and family enjoying watersports, sumptuous food, and luxury surroundings plus magnificent scenery!