Hodges Lake, located in Escondido, California, opened to paddlers for the first time in history on February 6, 2019. The lake is open Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, February through October. It is closed November through January.

Access: Paddlers must purchase a $7.00 day permit from the Lake Hodges Concession Building on the north side of the lake. After obtaining the permit, paddlers can launch from a beach area adjacent to a dirt parking lot, approximately 30 feet from the water.

Regulations: Stand-up paddleboards are allowed, with a maximum speed limit of 35 mph for all watercraft. Dogs are not permitted on paddleboards or other watercraft. Life jackets are required.

Lake Characteristics: When full, the reservoir has about 27 miles of shoreline. It was formed by the completion of the Hodges Dam in 1918 and is fed by San Dieguito Creek. The City of San Diego purchased the lake in 1925 and continues to operate it today.

Facilities: The lake offers 6 barbecues and 12 picnic tables. Self-contained gas barbecues are allowed in the picnic area, but ground fires, glass containers, and camping are prohibited. Floating bathrooms called "S.S. Relief" are scattered along the lake. A full-service snack bar and bait and tackle shop are available at the concession building.

Wildlife: Lake Hodges is known for bass and crappie fishing, attracting many anglers, especially on weekends.

Safety Considerations: Paddlers are advised to stay at least 100 feet away from the shoreline, 50 feet away from other watercraft, and 150 feet from fishermen. It's recommended to paddle with a buddy, wear a life jacket at all times, and use a leash.

Best Times: The lake is typically less crowded on Wednesdays compared to weekends. Early mornings may offer calmer conditions for paddling.

Overall Experience: Lake Hodges provides a unique paddling opportunity in a scenic reservoir setting, with ample shoreline to explore and the potential for wildlife viewing, particularly birds and fish.