Revisiting the Sutherland Dam

Sutherland Dam in Ramona, California

Last week a photography coaching session took me out to Ramona, Ca. I had a great time working with my newest client and helping out with a few camera questions as she prepares for a trip to Africa, as well as answering a few Lightroom questions. Afterward, I decided to take a drive out to the Sutherland Dam, about 20 minutes east of Ramona. The last time I was there was in 2015.

I was glad I took the time to do a bit of exploring. I haven’t been out with my big camera much lately and it felt really good to flex my creative muscles.

Sutherland Dam in Ramona, California
Sutherland Dam in Ramona, California
Sutherland Dam in Ramona, California

The water level was lower than I expected, but still higher than the last time I visited, which was in the middle of California’s big drought. Hopefully we’ll get some more rain this winter – California always needs rain.

Sutherland Dam in Ramona, California

I find the unique architecture of the Sutherland Dam fascinating. On the back there are tall arches with gates for releasing water. The front reminds me of a scalloped seashell. Construction of this impressive structure was started in 1927, and wasn’t completed until 1954. Sutherland is one of 24 reservoirs that provide drinking water for the city of San Diego.

Sutherland Dam in Ramona, California
Sutherland Dam in Ramona, California
Sutherland Recevoir with the Sutherland Dam in the background, Ramona, CA
Sutherland Recevoir with the Sutherland Dam in the background, Ramona, CA

On my way home I pulled off the side of the road to visit with a few of the horses grazing in their pastures. Three of them were quite curious about me, but only one was particularly friendly. He was quite happy to let me love on him a bit.

Curious Horses
Friendly Horse
Friendly Horse

I hope you enjoyed reliving this little excursion with me! It was so nice to get out for a bit and explore with my camera.

If you’d like to visit the Sutherland Dam, it is worth noting that lake access is typically closed from October through February, but there is a great view of the lake from the road above year-round. Click here for official info on the reservoir.

Images in this article were processed with Lightroom, Aurora HDR 2019, and Luminar 4

Disclosure: One of the ways I support this website is by partnering with awesome companies, whose products I use and love. These partnerships allow me to earn a small commission when you make a purchase through one of my affiliate links, but there is no additional cost for you. Thank you for your support!

4 Comments

  1. JEAN-FRANÇOIS DAMON on January 29, 2020 at 1:13 am

    superbe reportage!

    • Angela Andrieux on January 29, 2020 at 8:59 am

      Thank you, JEAN-FRANÇOIS! I’m glad you enjoyed it!

  2. Kevin La Rue on January 29, 2020 at 9:46 am

    Great shots, Angela! Next time you go, give me a call… ;)

    If you keep going down the road in the back of the dam, you end up on Black Canyon road, a nice dirt stretch that will take you to Mesa Grande – do it all the time on my dual-sport bike… Let’s plan a trip!

Leave a Comment





GET EMAIL NOTIFICATIONS WHEN A NEW ARTICLE IS PUBLISHED!