Negro Bar Lake Natoma
A serene lake offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and abundant wildlife viewing, with unique coves and a challenging paddle to Folsom Prison.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful paddling, abundant wildlife
Negro Bar Lake Natoma
Best Time
Peaceful paddling, abundant wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene lake offering paddleboarding, kayaking, and abundant wildlife viewing, with unique coves and a challenging paddle to Folsom Prison.
"Beautiful place to paddleboard in the early mornings. Watching the sunrise here has become such a peaceful routine."
Launch Point Debate
Black Miner's Bar gets you closer to bridges; Nimbus Flat is another popular choice. :kayak:
Parking Hassle
Drop gear at the ramp, then park uphill. Be prepared for a walk back to your watercraft. :car:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Jungle' Coves
Right of the launch ramp
Explore serene coves teeming with wildlife like eagles, turtles, and various birds. A peaceful escape on windy days.
Folsom Prison Challenge
Left of the launch ramp, towards Folsom Prison
Paddle against the current through a canyon-like area. Reaching the prison wire is a celebrated achievement for paddlers.
Sandy Beach & Playground
Further down from the boat ramp
A family-friendly spot with a sandy beach, playground, and even life vest rentals. Perfect for a relaxed day by the water.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Launch Point Strategy
Weekend Warrior Alert
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Launch Point Debate
Black Miner's Bar gets you closer to bridges; Nimbus Flat is another popular choice. :kayak:
Parking Hassle
Drop gear at the ramp, then park uphill. Be prepared for a walk back to your watercraft. :car:
Wildlife Watch
Spot eagles, turtles, and more in 'The Jungle' coves. Be respectful of their habitats. :eagle:
Safety First!
Always wear a life vest; water is cold and currents can be strong. :life_jacket:
Tips
from all over the internet
Launch Point Debate
Black Miner's Bar gets you closer to bridges; Nimbus Flat is another popular choice. :kayak:
Parking Hassle
Drop gear at the ramp, then park uphill. Be prepared for a walk back to your watercraft. :car:
Wildlife Watch
Spot eagles, turtles, and more in 'The Jungle' coves. Be respectful of their habitats. :eagle:
Safety First!
Always wear a life vest; water is cold and currents can be strong. :life_jacket:
Pack Snacks & Water
Paddling can be tiring! Bring plenty of provisions for a full day on the water. :water_wave:
Leave No Trace
Pack out everything you pack in to keep this beautiful spot pristine. :recycle:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Natoma is praised for its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and diverse water activities like paddleboarding and kayaking. Visitors enjoy the peaceful mornings and the unique 'Jungle' coves. However, some find accessibility challenging due to parking arrangements and note occasional issues with crowds, noise, and litter on busier days.
"Beautiful place to paddleboard in the early mornings. Watching the sunrise here has become such a peaceful routine. There are islands to paddle around with geese, ducks, swans, turtles and fish. There are also a few territorial beavers around so if you get close enough to their dens they will swim out and slap the water as a warning not to get close.
Not busy on weekdays and very busy after 10am on weekends. There is access to bathrooms, no sinks to wash hands though. $10 parking fee, there is a qr code that can be scanned at the entrance to pay online if arriving before 7am."
Lina Kozak
"There lots and of pros and cons to this location. Most important one to me is accessibility.
CONS:
* NO handicap parking available at the ramp (that I saw).
* NO permanent parking by the ramp. 🅿️
* You have your drop your board/kayak and gear/kids/family at the water. Then drive up a hill, park, then hurry back to your gear/kids/family. OR,
* Park on top of the hill, at the big parking lot. Then, carry your gear/kids etc down the big hill. Which means, you will have to do the same, after you are done being on the water, and most likely, exhausted.
* There are a LOT of inpatient people around. Some are friendly and nice, but there are a few that weren’t very nice at all.
* Large number of drinkers, weed smokers, loud music and people partying. Be cautious when leaving!
* Lots of trash scattered around, as well as floating when you get in the lake. As well as on the shoreline.
* Leeches on still water, like the “Jungle”. Though small, it’s something to be mindful of.
PROS:
* Amazing site seeing area!!
* Some of the places are the “Jungle”. Which is to the right of the launch ramp, and directly across the lake.
➡️ Here you can see TONS of wildlife. Paddle slow and listen to nature. It’s also a nice refuge on a windy day. There are 🦫, snakes🐍 , eagles 🦅, lots of fish 🐠, geese🪿, swans 🦢, turtles🐢, birds🐦, and so much more!!
🛑PLEASE BE MINDFUL of the wildlife!🛑
* Further down on the same side as the boat ramp, you will find a nuce, sandy beach area. With a playground, and a life guard station, with life vests you can borrow. It also seemed like they rent kayaks and paddle boards here. They may also have a snack shack. But I am not 100% certain.
* To the left of the launch ramp, you will find a bridge, lots of big rocks, some people where jumping off of, but there are posted signs not to do so. 🤷🏼♀️
* There is another brigde, and the lake starts to narrow, into a canyon looking area. The current is strong here, and many have personal challenges to reach the Folsom prison wire. This is considered a great achievement in the “paddlers community”.
🛑WEAR a life vest! The water is very cold. And there is a current running through the lake. I had to help a lady that fell in off her paddle boards and she didn’t have a vest on her. I threw mine to her and helped her back onto her board. She was very tired of swimming. Could have been tragic!
Another huge PRO. There are a couple of gentlemen that dive the lake, recovering lost items. They do this for free and are amazing!
Lastly, please LEAVE NO TRACE! Pack out everything you take with you. Let’s keep this place open. ❤️"
Renay
"Wonderful place for enjoying kayaking, paddle boarding or just floating and having a chill time. Many places to go, chill in the coves or paddle all the way to Folsom Prison. Water is still pretty chilly and bring a life jacket/boater."
Suzanne “Suz” Patterson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Reddit users often debate between Black Miner's Bar for bridge access and Nimbus Flat. Black Miner's Bar is noted for getting you closer to the bridges and lagoon area.
Lake Natoma is accessible via several points, with Black Miner's Bar and Nimbus Flat being popular launch sites. Check local maps for specific directions to your chosen access point.
Parking can be a challenge, especially on weekends. At some ramps, you may need to drop your gear and then park uphill, requiring a walk back.
Yes, restrooms are available at Lake Natoma access points, though some reviews mention a lack of sinks for handwashing.
Yes, you can access Lake Natoma before 7 AM. A QR code is available at the entrance for online payment of the $10 parking fee.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The parking fee at Lake Natoma is $10. You can pay online via a QR code at the entrance if arriving before 7 AM.
Generally, no specific permit is required for recreational paddleboarding on Lake Natoma, but always check with local park authorities for any seasonal regulations.
While there isn't a general entrance fee for the park, there is a $10 parking fee at designated access points like Black Miner's Bar.
Access points are generally open from sunrise to sunset, but specific hours can vary. It's advisable to check with the California State Parks for the most current information.
Some reviews suggest that kayak and paddleboard rentals may be available at the sandy beach area, though it's not guaranteed.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Lake Natoma is a haven for wildlife, including geese, swans, turtles, fish, snakes, eagles, and various birds. You might even spot territorial beavers!
Absolutely! Lake Natoma is wonderful for kayaking, offering opportunities to explore coves, paddle to Folsom Prison, or simply enjoy a chill time on the water.
Yes, there's a nice sandy beach area with a playground, which is a great spot for swimming or just dipping your toes in. Life vests are also available to borrow.
The water at Lake Natoma is generally described as pretty chilly, even in warmer months. Wearing a life vest is highly recommended due to the cold water and potential currents.
Be mindful of leeches in still waters like 'The Jungle,' and be aware that some areas have strong currents. Always wear a life vest.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer magical sunrise light and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for capturing the serene beauty of the lake and its wildlife.
The 'Jungle' coves provide opportunities to photograph diverse wildlife, while the canyon-like area leading towards Folsom Prison offers dramatic landscapes. The sandy beach area is also picturesque.
Yes, Lake Natoma is rich in wildlife, offering excellent opportunities for nature photography. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be mindful of any posted signs regarding restricted areas, especially near sensitive wildlife habitats or facilities.
You can capture stunning landscape shots of the lake and surrounding hills, close-ups of wildlife, and action shots of paddleboarders and kayakers. The bridges also offer unique photographic perspectives.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the 'Jungle' coves offer amazing wildlife viewing, keep an eye on children near the water's edge. The challenge of paddling to Folsom Prison might be too strenuous for very young kids, but the overall atmosphere is family-friendly. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as a day of fun can be tiring for everyone.
Budget Travelers
To save money, pack your own food and drinks. While rentals might be available, bringing your own gear if possible will significantly cut down on expenses. The natural beauty and wildlife viewing are free, making it an excellent destination for those looking to enjoy nature without breaking the bank.
Nature Enthusiasts & Wildlife Spotters
Keep an eye out for territorial beavers near their dens, and be respectful of all wildlife. The serene mornings offer the best opportunities for photography and quiet observation. Remember to practice 'Leave No Trace' principles to help protect this vibrant ecosystem.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Paddleboarding & Kayaking Paradise
For those seeking wildlife encounters, the 'Jungle' coves, located to the right of the launch ramp, are a must-visit. Paddling slowly here allows for close observation of diverse fauna, including various bird species, turtles, and fish. These coves also offer a sheltered refuge on windy days. On the other hand, the area to the left of the ramp features large rocks and a bridge, with some visitors engaging in cliff jumping, though signs often advise against it.
Beyond the active pursuits, Lake Natoma also boasts a sandy beach area with a playground, making it a great spot for families or those looking for a more relaxed experience. Some reports indicate kayak and paddleboard rentals might be available here, along with life vest borrowing. Remember to pack plenty of snacks and water, as paddling can be quite an exertion.
Navigating Accessibility and Amenities
Amenities include restrooms, but sinks for handwashing are not always available. The $10 parking fee can be paid online via a QR code, which is convenient for early arrivals before the fee booth opens. Despite these challenges, the natural beauty and the presence of park rangers and staff contribute to a generally positive atmosphere, with many visitors appreciating the opportunity for quality time with family and friends.
It's also worth noting that some areas, particularly 'The Jungle,' can have leeches in still water. Visitors are strongly encouraged to 'Leave No Trace', packing out all trash to help preserve the environment. The presence of volunteers who dive to recover lost items for free is a testament to the community's care for the lake.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit