A man in a wheelchair enjoying the view of Crystal Creek Falls. Photo courtesy of Ross Perry.
NPS photo.
Accessible Recreational Features at Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
Whiskeytown National Recreation Area has invested hundreds of thousands of dollars in entrance pass revenue to make many of the park’s recreational features accessible to visitors with physical or mobility impairments. Below is a list of some of these accessible features:
VISITOR CENTER
The Whiskeytown Visitor Center is wheelchair accessible. Outside the center, a paved outdoor plaza includes several wayside exhibits highlighting the park's natural and historical heritage. This area also offers a stunning view of Whiskeytown Lake and Shasta Bally.
TRAILS
Guardian Rock Trail: A half-mile section from Horse Camp to Clear Creek Gorge Overlook is paved, about six feet wide, and mostly flat. The trailhead at Horse Camp has a wheelchair-accessible vault toilet. Enjoy the sound and view of Clear Creek 250 feet below at the overlook. Access the trail via Paige Bar Road.
Crystal Creek Falls Trail: This paved, flat trail is about 10 feet wide and less than 1/2 mile long, leading to a view of Crystal Creek Falls. Access the trail from Crystal Creek Road on the park's western side.
Camden House Trail (Tower House Historic District): This paved trail stretches from the Tower House parking lot to just outside Camden House. Along the trail, four wayside exhibits provide information on the rich history of the area. The paved trail is under 1/4 mile in length.
FISHING PIERS
Oak Bottom: An accessible fishing pier is located near the marina parking lot.
Whiskey Creek Day Use Area: Another accessible pier can be found off Whiskey Creek Road.
CAMPING
Oak Bottom Tent Campground: This campground includes an accessible campsite near an accessible restroom. Reservations are available through Whiskeytown Marinas, the park’s authorized concessioner.
Oak Bottom RV Campground: Fully paved campsites and accessible restrooms are available. Reservations can be made through Whiskeytown Marinas.
KAYAKING
Oak Bottom Marina: Pedal-only kayaks are available for rent via Whiskeytown Marinas.
Paved Ramp: A paved ramp across from the marina allows wheelchair access close to the water. A second person is needed to transport the kayak from the vehicle to the ramp.
PICNICKING
Accessible picnic spots with paved pathways leading to picnic tables are available at the following locations:
Brandy Creek Beach
Brandy Creek Marina
Carr Powerhouse
Oak Bottom Beach
Whiskey Creek Day Use Area
Outside the Visitor Center
All picnic areas operate on a first-come, first-serve basis.
BRANDY CREEK BEACH
Visitors with mobility impairments can borrow a Beach Wheelchair for free between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday, from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend. This service is also available on Mondays of holiday weekends. Pick-up locations include Brandy Creek Beach Store and Oak Bottom Beach Store. A driver's license or photo ID is required and held at the store until the wheelchair is returned. Note: A friend or family member must assist in pushing the wheelchair onto the beach, as the wheelchairs are not self-operable.
