Ranger-Led Programs

Summer 2026 Ranger-Led Programs at Whiskeytown

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is thrilled to offer a diverse and engaging lineup of ranger-led programs for the summer of 2026! Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or just looking for a fun family activity, our programs are designed to enrich your visit and help you explore the beauty and history of Whiskeytown.

The summer schedule runs from late May through early September, offering a wide variety of activities that include everything from kayaking and paddleboarding adventures to Junior Rangers and Junior Firefighters.

Take a look at the program descriptions and schedules below to plan your visit. If you have any questions or special requests, don’t hesitate to reach out—simply email Whiskeytown Information at e-mail us. We look forward to welcoming you for an unforgettable summer!

All smiles on Whiskeytown Lake during a ranger-led kayak tour.

NPS photo.

Rise and Shine Kayak Tour

Time: 9am, Friday to Monday (as staffing allows)
Pre-Registration Required

Join us for a peaceful morning paddle as we explore the quiet coves of Whiskeytown Lake with a knowledgeable interpretive park ranger. This 2.5-hour program is perfect for friends or families, and no prior kayaking experience is necessary! Tandem kayaks and lifejackets are provided, and all participants must wear lifejackets during the tour.

• Children must be at least six years old to participate.
• Reservations: Available up to two weeks in advance at https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/274349.
• Important: To give everyone a chance to enjoy the tour, please only reserve if you plan on attending.

 

SUPing, Whiskeytown style.

NPS photo.

Paddle Board Adventure

Time: 1:30 pm, Friday to Monday (as staffing allows)
Pre-Registration Required

Perfect for beginners or those with little paddleboarding experience, this 1.5-hour program will teach you the basics of paddleboarding with the guidance of a park ranger. Build your confidence and enjoy the lake while learning this popular activity.

• Children must be at least 10 years old to participate.
• Participants should be able to kneel on a hard surface and rise to a standing position without assistance. (Expect to fall in the water!)
• Lifejackets are provided and must be worn.
• Reservations: Can be made up to two weeks in advance at https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/274349.

 

The park's Junior Ranger program in action. NPS Photo/Edwige Moses.

Edwige Moses

Junior Rangers

Time: 10am on holiday weekend Saturdays: May 23rd, July 4th, and September 1st
Location: Oak Bottom Amphitheater

Children and families are invited to join this fun and interactive program with an interpretive park ranger. Learn all about the wonders of Whiskeytown through engaging activities like games, arts and crafts, and a short nature walk. At the end of the 45-minute program, children will earn their very own Junior Ranger patch!

• Please note: Children must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

 

The park's Junior Firefighter program in action. NPS Photo/Kurt Moses.

NPS photo.

Junior Firefighters

Time: 11 am on holiday weekend Saturdays: May 23rd, July 4th, and September 1st
Location: Oak Bottom Fire Station

Join the fun at the Whiskeytown Fire Station for an interactive look at the park’s fire management program. Children and families can unravel a fire hose, dress up in firefighter gear, and explore what it takes to manage fires in the park. This 45-minute program is a hands-on experience that provides a unique insight into the world of firefighting. Earn a Junior Firefighter patch.

• Meet at the Whiskeytown Fire Station at Oak Bottom.
• Please note: Children must be accompanied by a parent or adult chaperone.

 

Kayaking Whiskeytown Lake at sunset.

NPS photo.

Moonlight Kayak Tour

Time: TBD in July and August
Pre-Registration Required

Discover the serene beauty of Whiskeytown Lake as the sun sets and the moon rises. This 2.5-hour tour offers a unique experience to witness the dramatic shifts in the landscape under moonlight. No prior kayaking experience is needed.

• Participants must be at least 6 years old.
• Reservations: Can be made up to two weeks in advance at recreation.gov.
• Important: To ensure everyone has the opportunity to join, please only reserve if you plan to attend.

 

Whiskeytown invites Spanish speakers to get out on the water with us!

NPS photo.

¡Hablamos Español!

For Spanish-speaking visitors, Latino groups, and Hispanic communities, a bilingual interpretive park ranger is available to lead programs in Spanish. For more information or to schedule a program, please email us in either English or Spanish. We look forward to welcoming your group!

¡Hablamos Español!

Para los visitantes hispanohablantes, grupos latinos y comunidades hispanas, un guía intérprete bilingüe está disponible para ofrecer programas en español. Para más información o para programar una visita, envíanos un correo electrónico en inglés o español. ¡Esperamos darle la bienvenida a su grupo!