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Blue-gray waters of lake with green shrub in foreground, mountains and clouds in background.
Destinations › North America › United States › California

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

Since: 1965 Open: Sunrise to sunset Price: Free
campaign Information: Wood & Charcoal Burn Ban · +1 expand_more

Wood & Charcoal Burn Ban — To protect park infrastructure and visitors during this hot, dry period of year, wood and charcoal/briquette burning is temporarily banned. Propane grills are still okay. Thank you for recreating responsibly in your national recreation area. Details ↗

Don't Move a Mussel! — Hey Boaters, please clean, drain, and dry your vessel completely before setting out on Whiskeytown Lake. Thank you for doing your part to keep the Golden Mussel, an aquatic invasive species, out of the reservoir. Learn more about preventative measures. Details ↗

park Source: US National Park Service, refreshed several times a day.

Introduction

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is a vast outdoor space in California, offering a mix of water and mountainous terrain. Visitors come for activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing, as well as to explore the remnants of the town that once thrived here before being submerged by the lake.

The area is also significant for its historical context, with mining activities shaping its landscape. While enjoying the natural beauty, it's important to respect the environment and the experience of fellow visitors.

In pictures

A woman looking at a cascade.
A woman looking at a cascade.

Things to know

Parking can fill up quickly on weekends, arrive early.
Bring water and snacks, as amenities are limited.
Dress in layers, temperatures can vary throughout the day.
Check for trail closures before your visit.

Good to know

Accessibility: some areas wheelchair accessible
Opening hours: Sunrise to sunset
Price: Free

Photo: NPS Photo.