About US
Phoenix Lake, located approximately three miles northeast of Sonora in Tuolumne County, was constructed in 1852 for hydraulic mining during the California Gold Rush. Over time, it transitioned to serve as the primary drinking water source for the area.
Through out the years, sediment accumulation reduced the lake's capacity by about one-third. To address this, the Tuolumne Utilities District (TUD) developed the Phoenix Lake Preservation and Restoration Plan, aiming to improve water quality, increase storage capacity, reduce future sedimentation, enhance wetland habitats, and evaluate public access.
Today, Phoenix Lake remains a vital resource for the region, supporting both the local water supply and serving as a scenic spot for non-motorized recreation.
The lake also serves as a principal fill source for CAL FIRE helicopter operations in the Highway 108 corridor, highlighting its importance in regional firefighting efforts.