Burrator Reservoir is located near the village of Yelverton within Dartmoor National Park, Devon, and serves as a primary water supply for Plymouth. The reservoir reaches a maximum depth of 23 metres, though this fluctuates with changing water levels. It is surrounded by mixed woodland, open moorland, and the rugged tors characteristic of Dartmoor, with the slopes of Sheeps Tor rising nearby. The River Meavy feeds into the reservoir, and the historic Devonport Leat terminates here as a waterfall. The area contains archaeological features including prehistoric settlements, cairns, cists, evidence of tin working, and the remains of the Princetown Railway.

Paddlers should be aware that all water sports — including kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding — are explicitly prohibited on Burrator Reservoir. Swimming is likewise not permitted. This restriction applies across the entire water body and is enforced by South West Lakes Trust, which manages the site. There are no access points, launch sites, or paddling routes available as a result of this prohibition.

The reservoir does permit boat fishing, with two boats available through the Burrator Fly Fishing Association. These fishing boats are the only watercraft permitted on the water. Anglers note that the water can be very clear, and there is a steep drop-off to deeper water approximately 40 to 50 metres south of the most westerly point of Longstone. This clarity and depth profile may be of contextual interest to paddlers, though it does not alter the prohibition on paddling.

For those visiting the area, facilities at the main dam include public toilets open seven days a week, and an ice cream van is regularly stationed at the main dam and at the Norsworthy Bridge car park on busy days. Car parking is available at multiple points around the reservoir. There is limited mobile phone reception throughout the area. The surrounding landscape supports a wide range of wildlife, and a wildlife guide covering 109 species found around the reservoir is available for purchase through South West Lakes Trust.