Top 5 Lakes around Shasta
Best lakes around Shasta offer a diverse landscape in Northern California, featuring large reservoirs and alpine lakes nestled among forested mountains. This region is known for its extensive waterways, including California's largest reservoir, Shasta Lake, and clear-water lakes like Lake Siskiyou and Whiskeytown Lake. The area provides a range of natural settings, from volcanic park environments to glacial lake basins. These lakes are significant for both their natural beauty and their role in regional recreation.
Best lakes around Shasta
- The most popular lakes is Whiskeytown Lake Overlook, a viewpoint that offers a great elevated view of the reservoir. This spot is notable for its proximity to the visitor center and informational panels detailing the area's nature and history.
- Another must-see spot is Keswick Reservoir, a lake that is part of the Sacramento River watershed. Visitors can expect to find both cold-water species like rainbow and brown trout and warm-water species here.
- Visitors also love Whiskeytown Lake Bridge 🌉, a bridge over the flooded valley of the original river. This long causeway and bridge spanning an arm of the original Whiskeytown River Canyon offers a unique perspective of the man-made lake.
- Shasta is known for its large reservoirs, glacial lakes, and clear-water lakes. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, each with distinct natural characteristics.
- The lakes around Shasta are appreciated by the komoot community, with 3 upvotes and 12 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
Whiskeytown Lake Overlook
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Keswick Reservoir
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Whiskey Creek Picnic Area and Boat Ramp
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Whiskey Creek Boat Launch and Picnic Area
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Whiskeytown Lake Bridge 🌉
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Tips from the Community
Keswick Reservoir, part of the Sacramento River watershed, harbors both cold-water species like rainbow and brown trout and warm-water species akin to those at Shasta Dam.
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The original bed of Whiskey Creek is now an arm of the lake. Where it becomes narrow like the original river is this boat launch and the picnic area with restrooms and drinking water. The road is often gated here for cars but bikers/hikers can go around the gate to continue north or go around the lake to another picnic area.
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Long bridge over the flooded valley of the original river
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Great elevated view of the reservoir, next to visitor centre and many info panels on nature and history of the area
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Even for a man-made lake crossing the long causeway and bridge spanning the arm of the original Whiskeytown River Canyon is an eerie feeling with noticeably deep water on both sides.
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Just before the gate closing off the upper sections of Whiskey Creek Road the picnic area provides access to the arm of the lake along the original river, as well as restrooms and drinking water.
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Elevated overlook across the lake with info panels about the flooding of the historic town and the issues around hydropower and nature. The visitor center provides more background, hiking info, water, and restrooms.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes for water-based recreation in the Shasta area?
Shasta Lake is California's largest reservoir, offering extensive opportunities for houseboating, water skiing, and fishing. For clear, calm waters ideal for swimming and kayaking, Lake Siskiyou is an excellent choice, featuring a children's inflatable "Splash Zone" in summer. Whiskeytown Lake is also known for its remarkably clear waters, perfect for swimming, boating, and ranger-led kayak tours.
Are there family-friendly activities and accessible viewpoints around the Shasta lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer family-friendly options. Lake Siskiyou has designated swimming areas and a "Splash Zone" for children, along with a multi-use loop trail. Manzanita Lake features a family-friendly 1.6-mile hiking trail and ranger-led programs in Lassen Volcanic National Park. For accessible viewpoints, the Whiskeytown Lake Overlook is wheelchair accessible and provides great elevated views of the reservoir, with informational panels on the area's nature and history.
Where can I find good hiking trails near the lakes?
Many lakes offer excellent hiking. Lake Siskiyou has a popular loop trail around its perimeter, providing scenic vistas of Mount Shasta. Manzanita Lake in Lassen Volcanic National Park features a 1.6-mile loop trail. For a unique experience, hike from Castle Lake to Heart Lake, a smaller alpine lake with spectacular views of Mount Shasta. You can also explore various trails around the region; for more options, check out Easy hikes around Shasta and Hiking around Shasta.
What fishing opportunities are available in the Shasta area lakes?
The Shasta area offers diverse fishing. Shasta Lake is known for bass, crappie, catfish, and sturgeon. Lake Siskiyou provides lake trout, brook trout, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, and brown trout. Manzanita Lake is recognized as a Wild Trout Waters Fishery. Additionally, Keswick Reservoir, part of the Sacramento River watershed, harbors both cold-water species like rainbow and brown trout and warm-water species.
Are there any historical sites or unique natural features to explore?
Yes, the region is rich in both. Shasta Lake offers free tours of Shasta Dam, the second-largest concrete dam in the U.S., and guided boat tours to the Lake Shasta Caverns. Whiskeytown Lake is surrounded by an area rich in Gold Rush history and features several waterfalls, including the tallest, Whiskeytown Falls. You can also visit the Whiskeytown Lake Bridge 🌉, a long causeway spanning an arm of the original Whiskeytown River Canyon, offering a unique perspective of the man-made lake.
What is the best time of year to visit the Shasta lakes?
The best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer (June-August) is ideal for water sports like swimming, boating, and kayaking, with Lake Siskiyou's waters reaching around 70 degrees Fahrenheit. Spring and Fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and exploring. Winter transforms Manzanita Lake into a snowy playground for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, while Heart Lake can freeze over for ice skating.
Can I go kayaking or boating on these lakes?
Absolutely. Shasta Lake is excellent for houseboating and powerboating due to its vast size. Lake Siskiyou offers kayak rentals and is popular for non-motorized boating. Whiskeytown Lake is also well-suited for kayaking, with ranger-led tours available. Manzanita Lake permits non-motorized boating, making it a peaceful option for paddling.
Are there less crowded lakes in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest area?
For a more serene experience, consider Castle Lake, a beautiful glacial lake known for its crystal-clear waters and dramatic cliffs. A hike from Castle Lake leads to Heart Lake, a smaller, high alpine lake that offers spectacular views and a quieter atmosphere, especially for kayakers and swimmers in warmer months.
What cycling routes are available near the lakes?
The Shasta area offers various cycling opportunities. While specific lake loop trails are available, you can find a range of routes in the broader region. For detailed cycling tours, explore the options listed in Cycling around Shasta, which includes routes like the Sundial Bridge loop from Redding.
Where can I find picnic areas or boat launches around Whiskeytown Lake?
Whiskeytown Lake provides several convenient spots. The Whiskey Creek Picnic Area and Boat Ramp offers access to the lake, restrooms, and drinking water. Another option is the Whiskey Creek Boat Launch and Picnic Area, also providing amenities and access to the lake arm along the original river.
Are there camping options near the lakes?
Yes, camping is available at several locations. Lake Siskiyou offers camping and cabin rentals. Manzanita Lake, within Lassen Volcanic National Park, hosts the largest campground in the park, providing amenities and ranger-led programs. It's advisable to check specific park or forest service websites for permit requirements and reservations.
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