March 3, 2026 - Stanislaus County, Turlock Irrigation District, and California State Parks today announced the approval of an agreement to operate Turlock Lake State Recreation Area (SRA). Future recreation at Turlock Lake SRA will offer family-friendly recreation with a waterpark, picnicking, fishing, swimming, non-motorized boating such as kayaking and canoeing, small engine motorized boating, and seasonal waterfowl hunting. The park may reopen as soon as summer 2027. For more details, see press release HERE.

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February 24, 2026  - Notice of Bridge Closures. Effective immediately, both Basso and Old La Grange Pedestrian Bridges are closed to the public. Recent inspections identified critical maintenance needs at both locations. Due to potential safety risks, the bridges will remain closed until necessary repairs are completed. Thank you for your understanding.

 

​​February 2, 2026 - OHV Grant Public Comment. The Stanislaus County Parks and Recreation Department will be submitting grants for the Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Division for Frank Raines and La Grange OHV Parks. We would like to give the public an opportunity to review the grants and provide comments. 

1. Public comments shall be submitted to the Applicant and the OHMVR Division.

2. Public comments shall be received no later than 5:00 pm Pacific Standard Time on the first Monday in May.

Please visit: www.ohv.parks.ca.gov  for more details. 

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October 30, 2025 - Updated Boat Launch Hours for Modesto and Woodward Reservoirs now open 6:00AM - 4:30PM

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October 1, 2025 - Banding Requirements & Quarantine Procedures for all Vessels

Beginning Wednesday, October 1st, 2025 all vessels launching at Modesto & Woodward Reservoirs must adhere to updated banding and quarantine procedures to prevent the spread of invasive mussel species.

 

Inspection & Banding Requirements:

1. Appointments are available at both Modesto and Woodward Reservoirs 6:00 AM to 4:00 PM, 7 days a week.

2. 30-Day Yellow Bands and Daily Blue Bands will be available during these hours only.

3. All boats must be Clean, Drained, and Dry to qualify for inspection and banding.

4. A valid Quagga Mussel Stamp is required for each vessel.

 

To schedule an appointment please contact:

Modesto Reservoir (209) 874-9540

Woodward Reservoir (209)847-3304

 

Please plan accordingly and help protect our water bodies.

Thank you for your cooperation!

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September 2, 2025 - swimming, wading, and other body-to-water contact activities will be prohibited at Woodward Reservoir. This restriction is in partnership with SSJID to meet water quality regulations. We will provide notice once the restriction has been lifted.