Magic Reservoir
Magic Reservoir
- Boat Ramps
- 5
- Access Points
- 5
- Campsites
- 7
Magic Reservoir is a 3,600-acre man-made lake located in southern Idaho, approximately 10 miles southwest of Bellevue at an elevation of 4,900 feet. The reservoir offers diverse paddling opportunities with nearly 30 miles of shoreline to explore. Multiple concrete boat launch ramps provide easy access for paddlers, including Barrel Springs (northwest), East Magic (mid-lake east side), Hot Springs Landing (northern section), and West Magic (mid-lake west side).
The reservoir is known for its calm, glassy waters, making it suitable for various watercraft including kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. There are no restrictions on boat types or motor sizes, so paddlers should be aware of potential motorized traffic. The lake's expansive surface area allows ample space for paddlers to navigate and enjoy scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
Magic Reservoir is home to diverse fish populations, including rainbow trout, brown trout, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot waterfowl, birds of prey, deer, and elk in the area. The reservoir and surrounding region offer opportunities for hiking, with trails providing panoramic vistas of the water and mountains.
For overnight trips, several campgrounds are located near the reservoir, offering basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and vault toilets. However, there is no drinking water available, and a 14-day camping limit is enforced. Private cabins and lodges are also available for rent in the vicinity.
The reservoir's varied shoreline and multiple access points allow for customizable day trips. Paddlers should come prepared, as there are limited amenities directly at the lake. The reservoir is accessible year-round, with ice fishing popular in winter, suggesting that water temperatures vary significantly with the seasons.
Magic Reservoir, originally built for hydroelectric power in the early 1900s, now serves primarily as a recreational destination, offering a peaceful retreat for paddlers seeking to explore southern Idaho's outdoor beauty.
Water access, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on Magic Reservoir. Uncover great paddling access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. PaddleWays's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.
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Idaho licenses and regulations
Idaho Boating Regulations
When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.
Idaho Boating Regulations
When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.
Idaho Fishing License
"To fish in Idaho any person 14 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license. Anglers younger than 14 do not need a license, but there is a small difference between resident and nonresident youth. -A resident child under 14 has their own separate fishing limit. -A nonresident child under 14 must be with someone who has a valid fishing license and their fish are in included in the license holders fishing limit. However, a nonresident child may purchase their own license and have their own limit. Special fishing permits are need for some activities for both residents and nonresidents: -Fishing for salmon and steelhead -Fishing with two poles."
Idaho Fishing Regulations
This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.
Idaho Stream Access Laws
Navigable streams are recognized as public transportation corridors, thus members of the public have the right to use the corridor, provided they enter and exit the corridor at a public right of way and remain within the corridor. Many navigable streams flow through private property, thus it is important that anglers know their rights and responsibilities when fishing in navigable waters that flow through private property.
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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)
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Paddling near Magic Reservoir
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Access points
- Hot Springs Landing Boat Ramp
- East Magic Resort Boat Ramp
- West Magic Boat Ramp
- Lava Point Boat Ramp
- Myrtle Point Boat Ramp
- Rock Creek Bridge
- Big Wood River Bridge
- Big Wood River Bridge
- Myrtle Point Recreation Site Campground
- Lava Recreation Site Campground
- Moonstone Recreation Site Campground
- Wolftone Campground
- All 15 spots
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