While the Lake Murray launch ramp is closed WE ARE OPEN. Fishing and Boat Rentals are still available.
Lake Murray is a reservoir in San Diego, California, owned by the City of San Diego’s Public Utilities Department. It is located within Mission Trails Regional Park. At full capacity the depth is 95 ft (29 m). The asphalt-paved service road lining roughly two-thirds of the lake’s perimeter is a popular recreation site for the Navajo community. It lies south of Cowles Mountain and is an important reporting point for aircraft inbound to land at Montgomery Field airport.
Lake Murray is a popular site for hikers, bicyclists and runners who move around the periphery of the lake. Kayaking and fishing are both allowed on the reservoir. Birdwatchers enjoy visiting Lake Murray where ducks, geese and herons abound. At least 149 bird species have been observed and recorded at Lake Murray.
There are 64 picnic tables located around the lake. Patrons can bring their own barbecues for use in designated areas only. Ground fires, glass containers and camping are not allowed at the park.
Concession & Rentals
Wednesday – Sunday – Sunrise to Sunset
Operating Schedule
Murray is open for shore fishing and private boats, kayaks and float tubes seven days a week from 5:30 am to sunset. The perimeter road and picnic areas are open 7 days per week, except for the 2nd Tuesday of each month.
| LAKE PERMITS (Cash only) | |
| Adult Fishing Permit | $11.00 |
| Youth Fishing Permit | $4.00 |
| Senior Fishing Permit | $6.00 |
| Boat Launch Permit | $11.00 |
| Kayak Launch | $6.00 |
| Prices are subject to change at anytime. |
BOAT RENTALS
Drivers License and Deposit are required on all boats. $10 Late Fee applies to all boats returned after time due back. All boats are rented on a first come basis.
| 4 PASSENGER FISHING BOAT WITH MOTOR | |
| 2 Hours (Minimum) | $60.00 |
| Each Additional Hour | $15.00 |
| Deposit | $100.00 |
| All Day | $120.00 |
| 2nd Anchor Deposit | $20.00 |
| 4 PASSENGER ROWBOAT | |
| Half Day | $35.00 |
| Full Day | $55.00 |
| Deposit | $35.00 |
| Kayaks | |
| First Hour | Single: $20.00 Double: $25.00 |
| Each Additional Hour | Single: $12.00 Double: $15.00 |
| Deposit | Single: $30.00 Double: $40.00 |
| PEDAL BOATS |
1st Hr. $30, Each Additional Hr. $15, Deposit $30 |
| CANOES | 1st Hr. 30, Each Additional Hr. $15, Deposit $30 |
FISHING
Fishing is allowed year round from sunrise to sunset. Murray Reservoir has largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, black crappie and trout. The minimum size limit for bass is 12 inches. Fish limits are five bass, five trout, five catfish and 25 crappie and bluegill in aggregate, with no limit on other species. Fishing permits are available at the concession and ranger pay stations. You must have a California State Fishing license, if you are 16 years of age or older.
CONCESSION
Snacks, drinks, ice, bait and tackle are available for purchase at the concession store. You can also purchase fishing permits and California State fishing licenses on site. Boat rentals are available on a first-come basis.
BOATING
Rental boats are available for fishing and recreational boating. Private boaters are welcome and pay a small launch ramp usage fee. Canoes, kayaks and float tubes are permitted. Float tubers must follow standard regulations which include waterproof waders, 144 sq. in. orange for visibility, horn or whistle and spare flotation device. Any float tube that uses oars or has a motor must purchase a private boat use permit. No swimming is allowed.
For information on trails please check the San Dieguito River Park’s web site at sdrp.org
DIRECTIONS
From Interstate 8 take Lake Murray Boulevard exit, turn right onto Lake Murray Boulevard, and turn left on Kiowa Drive, which leads to the reservoir entrance.
BOAT RENTALS
Drivers License and Deposit are required on all boats. $10 Late Fee applies to all boats returned after time due back. All boats are rented on a first come basis.
| 4 PASSENGER FISHING BOAT WITH MOTOR | |
| 2 Hours (Minimum) | $60.00 |
| Each Additional Hour | $15.00 |
| Deposit | $100.00 |
| All Day | $120.00 |
| 2nd Anchor Deposit | $20.00 |
| 4 PASSENGER ROWBOAT | |
| Half Day | $35.00 |
| Full Day | $55.00 |
| Deposit | $35.00 |
| Kayaks | |
| First Hour | Single: $20.00 Double: $25.00 |
| Each Additional Hour | Single: $12.00 Double: $15.00 |
| Deposit | Single: $30.00 Double: $40.00 |
| PEDAL BOATS |
1st Hr. $30, Each Additional Hr. $15, Deposit $30 |
| CANOES | 1st Hr. 30, Each Additional Hr. $15, Deposit $30 |