Lake Yosemite facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Yosemite |
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 Lake Yosemite
Location in California
Lake Yosemite
Location in the United States
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| Location | Merced County, California, United States |
| Coordinates | 37°22′35″N 120°25′44″W / 37.37639°N 120.42889°W |
| Type | Reservoir |
| Primary inflows | Main Canal |
| Primary outflows | Fairfield Canal Le Grand Canal |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Max. length | 0.899 mi (1.447 km) |
| Surface area | 500 acres (200 ha) |
| Average depth | 53 ft (16 m) |
| Water volume | 7,425 acre⋅ft (9,159,000 m3) |
| Surface elevation | 253 ft (77 m) |
Lake Yosemite is a cool, man-made lake found about 5 miles (8 km) east of Merced, California. It's nestled in the pretty Sierra Foothills. The University of California, Merced (UC Merced) is super close, just half a mile (0.8 km) south of the lake. The lake is right next to the university, and two canals, Fairfield Canal and Le Grand Canal, even flow through the campus!
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What is Lake Yosemite?
Lake Yosemite is a special type of lake called a reservoir. It was built way back in 1888. Its main job was to hold water for irrigation, which means supplying water to farms.
Today, the Merced Irrigation District still owns and runs the lake. They make sure farms in Merced County get the water they need. The fun activities at the lake are looked after by the Merced County Parks and Recreation Department.
Fun Activities at Lake Yosemite
Lake Yosemite is a great place for outdoor fun! You can enjoy all kinds of boating here. This includes exciting activities like jet skiing and water skiing. The lake has special places to launch your boat and a full-service marina where boats can dock.
If you want to swim, you can! But remember, swimming is only allowed in certain areas. It's super important to stay in these safe spots. There's even a place called The Padyak Shack where you can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (SUPs). Their staff is really friendly and can help you get started.
On land, there are nice, shady picnic areas. These spots have picnic tables, barbecue pits, and restrooms. There's even a small playground for younger kids to enjoy.
Sailing Adventures
Lake Yosemite is home to the Lake Yosemite Sailing Association (LYSA). This group was started in 1988 and has over 90 members who love to sail!
During the summer, the LYSA hosts exciting sailboat races every Thursday evening. They also plan fun sailing trips to other lakes and bays around California.
The Mystery of the Lady of the Lake
Lake Yosemite has a spooky story about its old tower. People say it's haunted by a ghost known as the "Lady of the Lake".
The stories describe her as having long, flowing white hair and wearing a long white gown. She is said to walk around the tower's catwalk and even on the surface of the lake. People believe she is looking for her lost child or someone she loved. Some folks have also reported seeing her walking along Old Lake Road, sometimes stepping into the path of cars. It's just a local legend, but it adds a bit of mystery to the lake!
