The Reservoir's operating schedule is Saturday, Sunday, Monday and certain holidays from sunrise to sunset. From Interstate 8, exit north on Lake Jennings Park Road, turn east on El Monte Road, about 8 miles to the entrance. When full, the reservoir has 1,562 surface acres, a maximum water depth of 197 feet, and 22 miles of shoreline. Water levels are monitored weekly. There are three barbecues and eight picnic tables in the picnic area near the concession.
Patrons can bring self-contained barbecues for use in the picnic area only.
No ground fires or glass containers are allowed. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times and at least 50 feet away from the water. El Capitan Reservoir has Florida-strain largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, channel catfish, blue catfish, green sunfish, and carp. Minimum size limit for bass is 15 inches. In addition to fishing from boats, patrons can float tube or fish from shore, although there are only about four miles of shoreline that are reasonably accessible by foot.