Contra Loma Reservoir is an 80-acre body of water within the 775-acre Contra Loma Regional Park in Antioch, California. The reservoir offers year-round paddling access through a dedicated boat launch area with 25 parking spaces for vehicles with trailers.

Important regulations require all paddlers to undergo mandatory watercraft inspection for invasive mussels before launching. The Contra Costa Water District mandates that paddlers take a 2-minute shower before entering the water and wear at least a short wetsuit. Sea kayakers using self-bailing boats must shower and wear wetsuits, while other dry-type kayaks are permitted with restrictions against rollovers or water contact. Showers are available near the restrooms and beach area.

The park provides wheelchair-accessible restrooms, drinking fountains, and parking facilities. Current water quality concerns include blue-green algae advisories in the main reservoir. The reservoir is separate from a designated swim lagoon that does not affect paddling areas.

Park hours vary seasonally: May-August 6:00am-8:30pm, September 6:00am-8:00pm, October-March 7:00am-closing times vary, April 6:00am-8:00pm. Entry fees include parking ($5 per vehicle, $4 with trailer) plus additional boating fees.

Wildlife viewing opportunities include various fish species like catfish, black and striped bass, bluegill, trout, and red-eared sunfish. The reservoir connects to hiking trails leading to Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve.

For navigation safety, all watercraft must carry Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices for each passenger. Alcohol is prohibited throughout the park. The reservoir's relatively small size makes it manageable for day trips, though paddlers should be aware of other boaters and anglers sharing the water.