A big leaf maple sprouting up from trees burned during the 2018 Carr Fire. Biodiversity continues here at Whiskeytown even after the biggest fire in National Park System history. NPS Photo.
NPS
The Natural Wonders of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is known for its stunning lake-based recreation, but its rich biodiversity and unique ecology are equally remarkable. As a meeting point for species from various regions and climates, Whiskeytown’s landscape is continuously shaped by natural forces, including fire. Explore the links below to uncover the intricate natural systems that make this area so unique.
Learn About Whiskeytown’s Biodiversity
Biodiversity– Discover Whiskeytown’s unique chaparral-woodland and Klamath Mountains mixed forest ecoregions. Learn about fire-adapted species like the knobcone pine and rare plants, including the MacNab Cypress and Howell's Alkali Grass.
Saving the Salmon– Understand the challenges facing salmon on lower Clear Creek and explore the ongoing restoration efforts to revitalize this critical species.
Climate Change at Whiskeytown– Learn how climate change today differs from past shifts and how it impacts Whiskeytown's ecosystems.
Fire at Whiskeytown – Fire has shaped Whiskeytown’s landscape for centuries, but in 2018, the park experienced the most destructive fire in National Park System history.
Discover Whiskeytown’s Flora and Fauna
Plants– Whiskeytown hosts over 1,000 species of vascular plants, including ponderosa pine, California live oak, manzanita, and vibrant spring wildflowers.
Birds– Spot some of the 160 bird species, from osprey to hummingbirds, that call Whiskeytown home.
Mammals – Beyond humans, 62 mammal species roam the area, including mountain lions, black bears, fishers, coyotes, and mule deer.
Reptiles– There are 33 species of reptiles in the park, each playing a vital role in Whiskeytown’s ecosystem.
Amphibians– Discover Whiskeytown’s diversity of amphibians, from the Pacific giant salamander to the yellow-legged frog.
Fish– Eight native fish species inhabit Whiskeytown’s waters.
In addition to these species, Whiskeytown is home to diverse but less visible life forms like Lichens, Bryophytes, and fungi, each contributing to the park’s ecological complexity.
Biodiversity and Scientific Research with the Klamath Inventory & Monitoring Network
The National Park Service's Klamath Inventory & Monitoring Networksupports and enhances scientific research in parks across southern Oregon and northern California, including Whiskeytown.
