You can swim in the lake, go boating or fish for trout. From South Lake, you can hike to many beautiful alpine lakes in the region. Bluegill, catfish, carp, and crappie are a few of the other species you can hope to catch at Clear Lake. Others, like Tenaya Lake, are protected inside a national park. Explore the center of the tech world located within one of California's most dynamic areas. Check out RV rentals on Outdoorsy and find the perfect vehicle for your trip. You can also swim in the lake, or fish. would be a crime. From the crystal clear waters of Lake Tahoe to the incredible lakes of southern California. Bear takes dip in swimming pool during extreme heat Mega Millions jackpot climbs to $1.05 billion after another drawing without a big winner Man pleads guilty to vehicular homicide in death of . Hike the trails in the area, camp, or explore the wilderness on horseback. It also makes for a fun weekend getaway from San Diego or LA, since there is plenty to do. Lake Tahoe. Numerous secluded coves and sandy beaches also make Lake Berryessa a playground for non-motorized boating, fishing, and swimming. Spend some time at the Lake Arrowhead Village when visiting. Big Bear boasts plenty of beaches on its long shorelineif youre lucky, youll have a stretch of land all to yourself (especially during this time of year). Instead, visitors can fish or explore the 42 miles of Lake Cachuma's shoreline by kayak or canoe. Catfish, bluegill, and bullhead are other species commonly found in the lake. The lakes surrounding lands are home to deer, antelopes, bald eagles, and many more animals. RV parks, campgrounds, and rental cabins also line the shore of Lake Almanor. Lake Tahoe is such a large tourism destination that it's formally divided into the quieter North Lake Tahoe and the more bustling South Lake Tahoe. Visitors are welcome to hike, boat, camp and even swim at the lake. You may also see wildlife, such as marmots or bighorn sheep, or even a bobcat. Three incredible waterfalls known as. All rights reserved. However, as peaceful as that sounds, Big Bear is one of the most action-packed lakes in California. Motorboats, kayaks, pontoon boats, and canoes are available for rent at the marina. Plan for potential altitude sickness before you visit; Tioga is one of the country's highest lakes accessible by car, at 9,700 feet above sea level. Enjoy the beautiful scenery, with snowcapped Mount Shasta dominating the skyline. Measuring 1,200 feet long, this site is awe-inspiring. Several put-in sites are available upon registering. Mono Lake is a magnet for photographers. To experience California is to get outdoors and breathe it in. But thats not alltheres room for water-skiing boats, fishing boats, patio boats, jet skis, and paddleboards. Our recommended businesses are top-quality and are committed to their communities. In the scenic Santa Ynez Valley, a half-hour drive from Santa Barbara, the mountains surrounding Cachuma Lake add to the lake's rugged beauty. So, get your fishing rods out; you might just be lucky enough to get a big catch. There are several picnic areas, so bring a meal to enjoy! We are Dhara and Kishore. Get insights from a local on what to do in Santa Cruz and where to have the best time. Having too few options wont be a problem if youre looking to boat on the lake. In season, you may see bald eagles here! This lake is so clear you can see your reflection. 1. They simply do not have the staff or the funding to attend to these issues. Where to See Oppenheimer in IMAX 70mm format in California, California's 11 Most Affordable Places to Live, The 7 Most Affordable Places to Live in the Bay Area, The 7 Best Places to Go Tubing in California, Discovering Coastal Gems: Top Beaches Near Santee, California, Discovering Coastal Gems: Top Beaches Near La Presa, California, Sun-Soaked Serenity: Your Guide to the Best Beaches Near San Juan Capistrano, CA, Your Guide to Visiting World of Barbie in Los Angeles, Uncovering Coastal Gems: Your Guide to the Best Beaches Near Adelanto, California, Sun, Sand, and Surf: Discover the Top Beaches Near Culver City, CA, We're committed to helping you discover the places, people and businesses that make our state Golden. If you enjoy birding, bring your binoculars: many types of birds of prey frequent the area. The Forest Service and other local management agencies are considering closing access to many of these sensitive locations due to excessive trampling of plants, large amounts of garbage, cans and glass bottles, human waste, and toilet paper left behind. You can fish from the shore or from a boat. The San Bernardino National Forest grounds, where Lake Hemet is nestled, cost $5 per day to enter. Dhara loves to explore her home state of California. You can cruise Lake Tahoe, go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, take a boat out, go parasailing, jet ski, scuba dive, or fish. If anyone in your family complains that a lakeside vacation sounds dull, past travelers say Big Bear Lake offers a surefire counterpoint. The lake's beauty during winter is unparalleled. A truly iconic experience is a helicopter tour to take in the views of Lake Tahoe from above. Or you can book a two-hour eagle and wildlife cruise hosted by a naturalist. Be aware that the road is only open to vehicles from early June until sometime in November. Named after the Mojave word for the color blue, Havasu Lake boasts miles of shoreline and stunning blue water views. Sandy beaches, clear turquoise water and large boulders jutting from the lake make Sand Harbor State Park one of the most alluring places in Lake Tahoe. Source: flickr. Here is a list of the 15 best lakes in California. Travel The Best Lakes in Southern California It doesn't matter whether you're looking for a fishing spot or a quiet getaway, these places make us want to splash around. Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center, Pennsylvania. For more details, refer to our disclosure. We believe good things come from people spending time outside. Statistics aside, Lake Tahoe draws people with its natural beauty, including its cobalt-colored water and stunning views of the surrounding Sierra Nevada Mountains. Past travelers recommend checking out the nearby Havasu Lake City, which shares a name with the lake and offers a boisterous atmosphere. Some California lakes, like Big Bear Lake, are resort areas, with recreation front and center. You also agree to our Terms of Use and our use of your information as set forth in our Privacy Policy. With 50 miles of shoreline and plenty of recreational areas, Lake Sonoma is a top spot for Californians looking to go boating at one of the top lakes in California. We promise not to annoy you, but if you wish, you may unsubscribe at any time. Warm weather activities include fishing tournaments, water sports rentals, mountain biking trails, zip lining, rock climbing, golfing, a go-kart track and a zoo. The aquatic wildlife is unique in Mono Lake, also, with brine shrimp thriving on the native green algae. If you choose not to camp at Folsom Lake, several popular hotel chains are located not far away. Lakes like Lake Mary and Horseshoe Lake are accessible by vehicle, while smaller lakes in the basin are only accessible by hiking trails. These beautiful lakes are bound to satisfy your wanderlust. 1. You understand that your consent is not a condition of purchase, and that you can opt-out at any time. Although there are a number of marinas on the lake, Bridge Bay Marina is the largest with over 700 slips. If you'd rather spend your time on the water rather than in it, fishing enthusiasts can land a "Sierra Grand Slam," catching all four varieties of the lake's trout in one day. Like Big Bear Lake in the same mountainous region, Silverwood Lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and swimming. Time your visit for late April or early May, when the lupine flowers 'super bloom' is in effect, covering the park in stunning shades of purple. We put together this list of the 20 best lakes in California. But fret not, youll find so much more than just bass at this SoCal fishing lake. So, to admire Honey Lake in all of its glory, make sure to visit in the wintertime. You can boat on the lake year-round, accessing beaches and picnic areas along the shoreline. You can also hike in the areas around the lake, or do a nature walk or nature cruise. Waterskiing, canoeing, rafting, and row boats are all popular. Located south of. 14 Best Things to Do in Cambria, California: Stay, Play, and Eat! There are many hiking trails in the area as well. It's generally characterized by a north and south region, as it spans state borders between California and Nevada. Lake Del Valle in Livermore is known for being a busy and fun summer getaway spot for Bay Area residents. Several picnic areas are available along the trail. There's a 35-miles-per-hour speed limit on the lake, and as a result, the most common watercraft includes kayaks, sailboats, and Jet Skis. Take a boat tour of the lake's fascinating underground cave system if you're looking for even more Shasta Lake history. Several resorts and resort amenities surround the west and north shores of the lake. From ride-on suitcases to personalized bags, these are the best kids luggage options. You can also go boating, and there is a beach at one end from where you can go swimming. One of the best views of this interesting geo-history is found in the South Tufa Area. Check out some of our other articles for inspiration! No wonder it is one of the most famous lakes in California, and one of the most popular! This is also the location for the festive Holidays at the Village during the winter season. Havasu Lake Location: San Bernardino County Named after the Mojave word for the color blue, Havasu Lake boasts miles of shoreline and stunning blue water views. The Most Romantic Places in California: 16 Incredible Getaways for Couples! California in October: 17 Best Places to Visit for a Fabulous Fall Getaway! The 9 Incredible National parks in California, The Most Beautiful Waterfalls in California, An Overview of Californias National Parks, 19 Marvelous Things to Do in Morro Bay, California (Hiking, Beaches, Wildlife and More!). At the backdoor of the once-booming gold town of Folsom, in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this massive reservoir is a result of an impoundment of the American River. With a picture postcard setting, Lake Sabrina offers boating and fishing. ), or go kayaking or boating. If that seems a bit unpalatable, many visitors take in Sonoma Lake's jaw-dropping vistas via a hike, a boat, or a horseback tour. Afraid youll get bored if fishing isnt your pastime activity of choice? The underground Lake Shasta Caverns is accessible by boat across the water and offers a unique adventure at Shasta Lake. The granite Sierra Nevada Mountains frame the dazzling blue water of Lake Tahoe, one of the most beautiful lakes in California and one of the most popular lakes in the United States. Discover destinations, find outdoor adventures, follow the journeys of our travel writers around the world, and be inspired. And that's just the beginning, We might be a bit biased, but were pretty sure the best lakes are found right here in the Golden State. Lyn Mettler and Amanda NorcrossJuly 28, 2023, Holly Johnson and Ann HensonJuly 26, 2023. Relax, unwind and explore at these top Belizean resorts. Commentdocument.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "abf2da305062f582ebd06adce268d3bc" );document.getElementById("h99c88179d").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Two day-use areas are also on the southern end of the lake and feature public swimming beaches with lifeguards on duty. Particularly popular with anglers and photographers, Tioga Lake offers fishing and picnic spots. The day hike to Blue Lake is very popular. So, dont wait to book a trip to one of the best lakes in California for vacation. Sand Harbor Beach is great for swimming, as is Pope Beach in South Lake Tahoe. If you'd rather not gamble with a tent, book a stay at the postcard-pretty Tioga Pass Resort. Changing water levels, unseen rocks, and river bottoms that have shifted with currents and seasonal weather can turn a well-known jumping area into a serious hazard. Take in the Emerald City's top sights from the water. Boating is limited to 200 vessels throughout the year, with advance launch permits recommended during the summer season. You cant help but float in Mono Lakeliterally. Popular activities in the Mammoth Lakes Basin include hiking, fishing, and taking quick dips in the water. This breathtaking Southern California lake is a mere 90-minute drive away from Los Angeles and is located along the West Fork Mojave River in San Bernardino County. If you find yourself near the San Jacinto Mountains, be sure to stop by Lake Hemet. The now-defunct Folsom Powerhouse was once considered the greatest electrical plant on the continent, providing power to Sacramento residents from 1895 to 1952. With more than 150 miles of shoreline, and many marinas, Lake Berryessa offers tons of fun activities. Boulder Bay Park, on the southwest shore, features one of the largest swimming beaches. Fern-draped waterfalls, alpine lakes, walled-in gorges, sandy beaches, frigid streams, and hot springs--California has it all. Fishing is a popular activity at San Luis Reservoir, and you can also windsurf. In our opinion, Convict Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in California! But fret not, youll find so much more than just bass at this. There are so many beautiful lakes in the Eastern Sierra! You can also walk along the lake shore, swim (but the water may be cold! The surrounding bedrock is popular for jumping with heights ranging between 10 and 20 feet. The 9,000-acre Cachuma Lake Recreation Area also features the San Rafael Mountains in the background and the Danish community of Solvang, about 12 miles away. The speed limit across the entire 500-square-acres of Lake Natoma is five miles per hour, which usually detracts motorized boats from accessing the water. Head about an hour east of San Diego and youll stumble upon this 110-acre reservoir nestled in the scenic Cuyamaca Mountains. In San Bernardino National Forest, less than 100 miles from Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake breaks the typical conventions of Southern California landscapes. Be sure to bring your best camera to snap the changing reflections of the tufa towers on the lake's surface. Still, life finds a way to thrive in and around the alkaline waters, and Mono Lake is home to countless brine shrimp and more than 80 species of migratory birds. Snowcapped Mount Shasta looms over. Big Bear Lake is also an excellent fishing lake rainbow trout are plentiful here. The lake is well-stocked with trout, and you can fish from a boat or the shore. It's thebiggest lake in California in terms of volume but the second-largest in surface area, behind the Salton Sea. Vehicle access to Donner Memorial State Park requires a $5 (October-April) or $10 (May-September) fee. Outdoor Project may earn commission on products purchased through our links, which supports the work we do for our readers. This popular body of water is a 19,000-acre impoundment of the Colorado River straddling the Arizona and California border in the far southeast part of the state. Now, the area has been repurposed into the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area, which is located about 25 miles northeast of Sacramento. Located south of Lassen National Volcanic Park, this gigantic Northern California lake is all about the trout. A quick note about SoCal. Campers receive complimentary access to the Splashing Eagle Swim Zone in the summer, which consists of a large beach and swimming area where life vests are provided. Oak Shore Parks is a popular day use area, and there are several marinas where you can rent water craft. 13. If you're roughing it, the recreation area offers eight cabins on-site that sleep up to six. Just a few miles from Lake Tahoe in the Sierra Nevada mountains is another gorgeous lake: Donner Lake. By submitting your email address you agree to our Terms of Use With a long lovely shore, and a setting in the midst of granite cliffs, Tenaya Lake offers a serene getaway. Mono Lake is famous for its tufa formations: towers of calcium carbonate that stand in the water and on shore. Lake Arrowhead is another aquatic vacation destination in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, also known as the "Alps of Southern California." Lake Nacimiento offers boat and waterski rentals. Eagles are also occasionally spotted in the sky, according to recent visitors, so bring binoculars for bird watching. There is a $12 fee to park your vehicle, but after a day of hiking, fishing or swimming, you'll be sure to forget all about it. Its also one of the largest lakes in California, offering wonderful water views. You can rent a houseboat on Lake Shasta! Numerous outfitters and marinas around the lake offer boat rentals and other activities like scenic lake cruises. Lake Tahoe is also home to one of the best state parks in California, and Emerald Bay State Park delivers a view that inspires repeat visits. Sunrise at Convict Lake is magical! Lake Tahoe is synonymous with lake life in the Golden State and is known as the jewel of the Sierras. Our online publication, updated daily, brings you all the content you need to live your California dreams. Situated along the border of California and Nevada, this is a famed destination for a variety of reasons. Located in the San Bernardino National Forest and about 100 miles west of downtown Los Angeles, Big Bear Lake is an incorporated city in California and a year-round tourism hub. to just a handful. Lassen Volcanic is one of the lesser-visited California natural parks, so you can enjoy the spectacular scenery in relative solitude, even in peak summer. Nightlife and entertainment surround the shores of the lake, particularly at tourist spots on the southeast shore like the resort cities of Stateline and South Lake Tahoe. Whether youre looking to gocamping near a lake, fishing, boating, or sightseeing, theres a beautiful lake in California thatll take your breath away. Its five-mile length appeals to motorized boaters, and several sheltered coves offer great spots to swim, fish, and paddle a boat. , this gigantic Northern California lake is all about the trout. Perris Reservior. Wonderful Lakes for Swimming. Want more thrills? While it's popular for skiing and boarding in the winter, summer (and often well into fall) is ideal for cruises, kayaking, jet-skiing, paddle boarding and just about every other water sport imaginable. Its three times as salty as the ocean (and twice as beautiful). About 57 miles north of Los Angeles, lake-seekers can scratch their itch with a visit to Pyramid Lake in the Angeles and Los Padres National Forests. Lee Vining is the closest town to Mono Lake; check out the Yosemite Gateway Motel, where accommodations come with expansive lake views. So, to admire Honey Lake in all of its glory, make sure to visit in the wintertime. Learn more about our selection criteria and vetting process. Motorized boating is not allowed on Horseshoe Lake, so if you are visiting with kids, its a great destination. literally. The marina can house up to 100 houseboats. This unique water management system acts like a massive drain plug and creates a whirlpool in the middle of the water when the reservoir is getting too high. Lake Tahoe is so stunning that it is a must-stop spot on any California road trip itinerary that includes the eastern portion of the Golden State. Fishing is another popular activity at Pyramid Lake. Among the beautiful lakes of California is Folsom Lake - home to popular freshwater fish species, including rainbow trout, catfish, and bass. Lake Almanor is a hidden gem in Northern California. Straddling the Arizona and California border, this Southern California lake is popular among boaters, fishers, and swimmers alike. The resort town of Mammoth Lakes in the Eastern Sierra is blessed with a number of beautiful lakes, all within easy driving range of the town. You can swim and boat in Mono Lake. To the north of Los Angeles in the San Bernardino Mountains sits the stunning Big Bear Lake. Havasu Lake, you've stolen our hearts. Made famous by the Donner Party, a group of early pioneers who were stranded here during the winter of 1846-1847, Donner Lake is a freshwater lake about 6,000 feet above sea level in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. 1. These beautiful lakes are bound to satisfy your wanderlust. Did you find this article informative? 2023 It's Not About the Miles Travel Media LLC. Anglers appreciate small boats available for daily rental so they can cast for a catch wherever they want. If you're looking for a lake in the Santa Ynez Valley, bookmark Lake Cachuma. Plan your activities on and by the water with our list of the best lakes in California. On a still morning, the reflection of the mountains in the lake creates a dramatic scene. Hike the many trails in the area, or go horseback riding. Still others are in the backcountry, and relatively untouched. Located on the fringes of Angeles National Forest and under a one-hour drive from Los Angeles, Castaic Lake is one of the largest water reservoirs in the state. Jet ski, or go wakeboarding or waterskiing! While miles and miles of coastline steal the spotlight when it comes to bodies of water in California, the states beautiful lakes and reservoirs provide views and adventures just as worthy of attention. 17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in California, 21 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles, 23 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Francisco, 15 Top-Rated Beach Resorts in Southern California, 15 Top-Rated Beaches in Northern California, 20 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways in Southern California, 15 Top-Rated Resorts in Northern California, 15 Best Campgrounds in Southern California, 13 Top-Rated Romantic Getaways in California, 10 Great Off-the-Beaten-Path & Interesting Places in California, 10 Top-Rated Attractions in the California Desert Region, Croatia Road Trip: Driving the Coast from Istria to Dubrovnik, 24 Best Places to Visit in the United States, 21 Best Luxury All-Inclusive Resorts in the World, Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do at Lake Tahoe, Top-Rated Things to Do at Lake Arrowhead, CA. California, as everyone knows is sunny and mostly warm. Traveler-favorite pastimes include boating, fishing, water-skiing, and picnicking and can be enjoyed in the warmer months. A water park by the shore makes Lake Casitas a fun destination if you are traveling with kids. The San Bernardino Mountains and forested hills surrounding the bright-blue lake make it an extremely beautiful backdrop suitable for any type of adventure. And boating is increasingly popular on Lake Almanor, particularly in the early morning when the surface is smooth as glass. You might want to visit during the spring or autumn season, as the water heats up during the summer and wont be as refreshing. Its an ancient lake, formed nearly a million years ago. There are hiking trails to explore and birding and wildlife viewing opportunities as well. Whether in California's mountains or cities, you're never too far from a gorgeous lake. Although temperatures are typically mild here, no swimming is allowed in this lake. It's a popular destination in the summer, and the winter season also draws a small crowd for bald eagle watching. If you're after a couple's getaway, consider the Tahoe Mountain Resorts Lodging Old Greenwood in the town of Truckee. These Golden State lakes will soak the senses in sunshine, shades of blue water and wide-open space. There are several hiking trails near the shore, and a boardwalk trail to a viewpoint from where you can see the lake. Many of the nicest lakes in California deliver land-based activities, too, like the hundreds of miles of hiking trails that surround Bass Lake just north of Fresno. Snowcapped Mount Shasta looms over the lake, an ever-present landmark, as visitors fish and explore this Sacramento River-fed lake. You can choose to do day hikes or a multi-day backpacking trip. Lake Tahoe is popular with motorized and non-motorized boating. Located in the coastal foothills of Sonoma County, about a 90-minute drive from San Francisco, is Lake Sonoma. The encompassing Folsom Lake State Recreation Area surrounds the water and provides hiking trails, campgrounds, and several places to access the shoreline. Also known as the June Lake Loop, this region along the Mono Basin is sometimes called Eastern Sierra's original resort community, so there is no shortage of lodging options. These formations are due to the lake's salinity levels, three times that of the ocean. While many of these lakes offer the same Sunday-style activities of fishing, boating and swimming, the very best lakes in California also offer a story. Camping and day-use areas abound, and fishing and hunting are big sports here. Some California lakes, like Big Bear Lake, are resort areas, with recreation front and center.
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