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Lake Pillsbury Vacation Rentals

Lake Pillsbury

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Lake Pillsbury
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Why Rent On Lake Pillsbury

Tucked into the Mendocino National Forest, Lake Pillsbury is a remote 2,280-acre reservoir formed by Scott Dam on the Eel River. It’s a favorite destination for campers, anglers, and water recreation lovers seeking an off-grid escape. Fishing here includes rainbow trout, largemouth bass, and Chinook salmon during seasonal runs. Boating is unrestricted, and the lake’s wide bays are ideal for waterskiing and paddling. Primitive campsites dot the shoreline—Sunset Point Campground is a standout for lakefront views. Bald eagles and tule elk sightings are common, especially near the Eel River elk viewing area. There are no full-service marinas, so come prepared. The remoteness and natural serenity make Lake Pillsbury a well-kept NorCal secret.

Best time to go
Visit Lake Pillsbury in late spring, from May to early June, when wildflowers bloom, and the sun graces the serene waters. Engage in tranquil fishing or kayaking, reveling in the peace before summer crowds emerge, as crisp scents of pine fill the air.
Water Quality
Lake Pillsbury's water exhibits a jade hue, with clarity ranging from ultra-clear to murky, influenced by seasonal algae blooms.
Surface area (mi)
5.72
Max depth (ft)
87.99
Elevation (ft)
1820.87
Shoreline length (mi)
65.24

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Waterskiing
  • Kayaking
  • Canoeing
  • Swimming
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Jet Skiing
  • Ice Skating
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Marinas on Lake Pillsbury

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Lake Pillsbury has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, swimming is allowed in Lake Pillsbury. There are designated swim areas, and the lake is part of the Mendocino National Forest, which supports various water activities including swimming.

  • Lake Pillsbury is a popular destination because of its diverse outdoor activities. It offers boating, swimming, fishing, birdwatching, stargazing, camping, and hiking along its 31 miles of shoreline. The lake also has a marina with boat and kayak rentals, making it ideal for family vacations and nature enthusiasts.

  • For Lake Pillsbury in California, the fishing regulations allow anglers to use one closely attended rod and line or one hand line with not more than three hooks. The daily bag and possession limits vary by species, but generally, anglers can take a combination of fish with no more than 10 of any one species. A valid California fishing license is required for anglers over 16 years old.

  • There is no public beach at Lake Pillsbury, but there are public boat launches. The Lake Pillsbury Resort Marina and the Fuller Grove and Sunset boat ramps provide public access for launching boats. These facilities are open to the public and offer various services including boat rentals and fuel sales.

  • Towns near Lake Pillsbury that offer essential amenities like gas and groceries include Upper Lake and Lakeport. Upper Lake provides gas and groceries, while Lakeport is the nearest location for medical services.