Donnell Reservoir is located in a steep rocky canyon of the Middle Fork Stanislaus River approximately 5 miles upstream from Beardsley Reservoir, 7 miles from Highway 108 off Beardsley Road on 5N09X, a rough, narrow and winding route where safe travel speeds average 5-10 mph.  High clearance vehicles are recommended for travel on this road.  No facilities are provided for boating. The steep rocky terrain limits foot access to only small portions of the shoreline.  No developed recreation facilities exist at the reservoir; however, the area is popular for day use, dispersed camping and fishing.  The reservoir is open all year with road access subject to winter closure.  Donnell Reservoir visitors enjoy dispersed camping, fishing and hiking.