A Splash of Whiskeytown

Kayaking Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

04.26.2018

Some liquid pleasures just shouldn’t be passed up. And we’re willing to bet you’re going to want a double shot of Whiskeytown! Located just 8 miles west of Redding and surrounded by mountain peaks, Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is nearly 40,000 acres of all things outdoors: waterfalls, campgrounds, beaches, hiking trails, and a beautiful crystal-clear lake at the center of it all.

Paddling the waters of Whiskeytown is the best way to see the lay of land, the surrounding mountains, and the wildlife! Currently park rangers lead the Rise and Shine Kayak Tour during the week.

Paddling from the Oak Bottom Marina, cruise into Whiskeytown Lake's northwestern arm, which is closed off to boating. Enjoy serenity as you explore the gentle coves, keeping an eye out for osprey and bald eagles. Osprey are currently protecting nests in the area, and the Canada geese's goslings are also springing up (cue the cuteness). Even bears come around along the shoreline from time to time!

Whiskeytown is 8 miles west of Redding. Rent kayaks or go on ranger guided tours.

Tip: Looking for a campsite tonight? Try Campsite Tonight! It’s an app that searches both public & private campground systems to let you know what’s available. 

 

Trending Stories NorCal

View all Stories

  1. A Hike to the Past

    This 5.2-mile redwoods hike through El Corte de Madera Creek Open Space combines a relaxing stroll with unique geologic formations and historical artifacts.

    View

  2. Golden Mile

    Dubbed the Golden Mile, this car-free stretch of road in Golden Gate Park features rotating art installations of murals, sculptures, and abundant bright yellow Adirondack chairs for kicking back to relax. See Naga, the recent new addition here, an impressive sea serpent art installation at Golden Gate Park's Rainbow

    View
  3. Hike at Olompali State Historic Park in Marin

    Historically Serene

    Olompali State Historic Park is a small park that packs big California history. Go on a mostly easy 3-mile loop hike where oak trees, big-leaf maples, and madrones are stunning in autumn.

    View
  4. Sponsored

    Redding Lights and Silent Nights

    Give your holiday events calendar a major glow up this winter in California’s sunniest city. Redding is a revelation: Surrounded by iconic scenery like Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and Whiskeytown National Recreation area.

    View

Trending Stories SoCal

View all Stories

  1. The Undead Ghost Town

    Every Halloween, the worlds of the living and the dead blur together. In the “living ghost town” of Randsburg that condition is permanent. This strange gold-rush town near the El P

    View

  2. Montebello Mission

    Adorable animal feeding, peaceful bird watching, and delicious beer drinking? Hello, Montebello! This northeastern city has fantastic views of the hulking San Gabriels and a variety of green spaces, not to mention great spots for beer(s)!

    View
  3. Woman kneeling by the creek at Chino Creek Wetlands

    Wetland Wander-Fall

    Chino Creek Wetlands is proof you don’t always have to go far to find an escape in nature. Located in the heart of Chino in part of the Santa Ana River watershed, the Chino Creek Wetlands has 1.7 miles of trails, but really this is a place to explore without a lot of fuss.

    View

  4. Mulholland's Most Majestic

    Take a leisurely drive along Mulholland Drive to discover beautiful urban scenery and unexpected wild beauty, right in the middle of the city. 

    View