Outdoor Activities

Water-based activities are the primary interest of most Whiskeytown visitors which include boating, kayaking, swimming, canoeing, sailing, water skiing, scuba diving, and fishing.

• Water Safety - Life Jacket and Boating Licence Requirements

In addition, the land area surrounding the lake and extending all the way to the top of Shasta Bally (6,199 ft. elevation) provides ample opportunities for birdwatching, camping, picnicking, wildlife viewing, hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.

The Tower House Historic District dates back to the California Gold Rush. Opportunities in this area include gold panning, interpretive wayside exhibits, and the Camden House, built in the 1852 and later expanded.

 

Boaters on Whiskeytown Lake.

NPS photo - 2005

The lake offers boating, waterskiing, sailing, kayaking and canoeing. With 36 miles of shoreline and a full pool in the summer the reservoir provides excellent water recreation in a beautiful mountain setting. All federal and state boating regulations apply. Fishing is permitted from a boat or the shore. A California fishing license is required.

Note: Personal watercraft (PWC) such as jet skis, are prohibited on Whiskeytown Lake.