Coyote Lake is a 635-acre artificial reservoir located in Santa Clara County between Morgan Hill and Gilroy. The lake stretches 3.5 miles in length with a maximum width of 0.5 miles, impounded by Coyote Dam built in 1936. At an elevation of 774 feet, this reservoir is managed by the Santa Clara Valley Water District and surrounded by the 4,595-acre Coyote Lake Harvey Bear Ranch County Park.

Paddling is permitted on Coyote Lake with both power and limited power boating allowed. The lake accommodates kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, and other non-motorized watercraft. A boat launch ramp is located two miles north of the visitor center, featuring two docks, a three-lane concrete ramp, paved parking, and restroom facilities. The launch area provides convenient access for launching paddlecraft.

The paddling season runs from mid-April through mid-October, with the lake closed to all boating between mid-October and mid-April. County park boating hours begin at 8:00 AM, and all vessels must be off the water thirty minutes before sunset. Personal flotation devices must be available for each person on board, and children under 13 must wear Coast Guard approved life jackets at all times.

Several regulations apply to paddlers. A County of Santa Clara vessel registration declaration form must be completed annually before entering park waters. DMV vessel registration and quagga mussel stickers must be current and attached to vessels. California Boater Cards are required when operating any vessel on county waterways. Swimming is prohibited in the reservoir by order of the Santa Clara Valley Water District.

The lake contains various fish species including bluegill, black crappie, channel catfish, carp, and black bass, making it popular among kayak anglers. However, the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment has issued a safe eating advisory for fish caught in Coyote Lake due to elevated mercury levels.

Entrance and vessel inspection fees are required for launch. The surrounding county park offers camping, picnicking, and hiking opportunities that complement paddling visits.