Stampede Reservoir — Current Water Temperature, Annual Trends and Forecast
This page provides information on the current water temperature in Stampede Reservoir, trends, monthly ranges and the forecast for the coming days.
Current Water Temperature
Water Temperature in Stampede Reservoir today is 16.1°C.
Water Temperature: Daily Trends, Historical Records, and Forecast
⚠️ As of today, the minimum water temperature ranges from 60°F (15°C) to 65°F (18°C). The water is comfortable for most people, making it an ideal range for water sports enthusiasts. The temperature does not cause significant discomfort, and swimming will be pleasant for the majority. However, it's important to remember that prolonged exposure to the water can still lead to cooling, so it's essential to monitor the time spent in the water, especially for children or elderly people. It is important to note that these swimming tips and recommendations apply only in good weather. When the air temperature is below 68°F (20°C), and sometimes even below 77°F (25°C), swimming can be unpleasant even with relatively high water temperatures.
Water Temperature Chart Over the Last 30 Days
Table of Daily Sea Temperature Data
| Date | Current | Average | Forecast |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEP 17 | 17.8°C | 19.4°C | |
| SEP 18 | 17.7°C | 19.4°C | |
| SEP 19 | 17.7°C | 19.4°C | |
| SEP 20 | 17.3°C | 19.4°C | |
| SEP 21 | 16.5°C | 19.4°C | |
| SEP 22 | 16.5°C | 19.4°C | |
| SEP 23 | 16.9°C | 19.4°C | |
| SEP 24 | 16.2°C | 19.4°C | |
| SEP 25 | 19.4°C | 16.0°C | |
| SEP 26 | 19.4°C | 15.9°C | |
| SEP 27 | 19.4°C | 15.9°C | |
| SEP 28 | 19.4°C | 15.8°C | |
| SEP 29 | 19.4°C | 15.7°C | |
| SEP 30 | 19.4°C | 15.6°C | |
| OCT 1 | 14.5°C | 15.5°C |
* Current - Actual water temperature value
** Average - Average water temperature on this day in recent years
*** Forecast - Our water temperature forecast
Actual nearshore water temperatures may fluctuate by several degrees from the reported values, especially following heavy rainfall or extended periods of strong winds. Certain wind patterns can cause colder, deeper waters to rise and replace the sun-warmed surface water, leading to noticeable variations.
Our forecast is based on a proprietary mathematical model that considers real-time water temperature changes, historical trends, key weather patterns, wind strength and direction, and air temperature specific to each region. Additionally, we incorporate data from other resorts to enhance accuracy.
Monthly Water Temperature Range (Min, Max & Average)
| Month | Min | Avg | Max |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 0°C | 1°C | 4°C |
| February | 0°C | 3°C | 5°C |
| March | 1°C | 5°C | 9°C |
| April | 2°C | 6°C | 9°C |
| May | 7°C | 13°C | 19°C |
| June | 10°C | 14°C | 19°C |
| July | 16°C | 20°C | 24°C |
| August | 19°C | 22°C | 26°C |
| September | 17°C | 19°C | 22°C |
| October | 11°C | 15°C | 18°C |
| November | 5°C | 8°C | 12°C |
| December | 0°C | 3°C | 6°C |
Stampede Reservoir: Water Temperature by Location
Stampede Reservoir: Weather Forecast
September 25
September 26
September 27
September 28
September 29
Location & Local Information
Stampede Reservoir, a high‑elevation storage lake in the northern Sierra Nevada of California, tends to have cold water for much of the year because of elevation, snowmelt inflows and relatively deep basins. Typical seasonal surface temperatures run roughly 35–50°F (2–10°C) in spring when snowmelt is strongest; 45–60°F (7–16°C) in early summer as flows moderate; and about 55–68°F (13–20°C) at the warmest points in mid to late summer on calm, shallow nearshore areas. By fall the surface cools back toward 40–55°F (4–13°C), and in winter the water can approach freezing and sometimes develops frail or patchy ice in sheltered spots.
Swimming is generally possible at Stampede Reservoir because it is managed for multiple recreational uses, but it is not a formally lifeguarded beach and local rules or seasonal closures can apply, so checking posted signs and county guidance is important. The main reasons for caution are the cold temperatures that can cause cold shock and increase hypothermia risk, uneven shorelines and submerged hazards, strong winds and boat traffic, and dangerous currents near outlets or dams. For safer outings, limit time in the water, wear a wetsuit in cold months, swim near companions or boats, and avoid areas near infrastructure.