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Whiskeytown Lake Vacation Rentals

Whiskeytown Lake

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Whiskeytown Lake
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Why Rent On Whiskeytown Lake

Whiskeytown Lake, within the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, is a sparkling blue gem framed by pine forests and waterfalls. Created by the Whiskeytown Dam on Clear Creek, the 3,200-acre lake is known for its calm waters and exceptional clarity—ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, sailing, and kayaking. Anglers chase kokanee salmon and smallmouth bass. Four developed beaches and multiple boat launches make it a user-friendly destination, and the lake remains uncrowded even in summer. Highlights include Whiskeytown Falls, accessible by a scenic 3-mile hike. Campgrounds like Brandy Creek offer shaded sites with lake access. Though damaged in the 2018 Carr Fire, the area has recovered beautifully. After your lake day, grab a bite at Woody’s Brewing Co. in downtown Redding.

Best time to go
Embrace the allure of late spring to early summer at Whiskeytown Lake, where sun-kissed days illuminate crystalline waters. The annual Whiskeytown Art and Wine Festival in June adds a touch of sophistication, while fewer tourists and vibrant wildflowers enhance the tranquility, inviting leisurely hikes and serene kayak excursions under a canopy of azure.
Water Quality
Whiskeytown Lake's waters are a sparkling azure, offering crystal-clear visibility up to 30 feet, making it ideal for swimming, paddleboarding, sailing, and kayaking.
Surface area (mi)
8.69
Max depth (ft)
369.09
Elevation (ft)
1213.91
Shoreline length (mi)
36.35

Popular activities

  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Freshwater Fishing
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Marinas on Whiskeytown Lake

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

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

  • No, pets are not allowed on the swim beaches at Whiskeytown Lake. Dogs are prohibited at Brandy Creek Beach, Oak Bottom Beach, and East Beach, but they can be on other parts of the lakeshore as long as they are on a leash.

  • Whiskeytown Lake is a popular destination because it offers a variety of activities like swimming, boating, fishing, and kayaking. The lake, formed by Whiskeytown Dam, has crystal-clear waters with 30 feet of depth visibility and 40 miles of forested shoreline, making it ideal for water sports and scenic enjoyment.

  • The daily catch limit for trout and salmon in Whiskeytown Lake is 5 of each species. You can keep a total of 5 kokanee and 5 trout per day. Fishing for these species is allowed from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.

  • Brandy Creek Beach is best for families. It has a roped-off wading area for kids, lifeguards during the summer, and amenities like picnic tables and a food stand. The beach also offers paddleboard and kayak rentals and a floating platform in the swimming area.

  • Towns near Whiskeytown Lake include Redding, Shasta Lake, Anderson, and Millville. These towns are all located in Shasta County, California, and are close to the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. Redding is the largest nearby town and is less than five minutes from Whiskeytown.