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!

For an extra smooth paddle, rent your kayak from Headwaters Adventure Company. Family owned by Terri and Joe Arbuckle, they’ve got the Cadillacs of kayaks in their fleet.  You can go on your own or ask Headwaters for a guided trip!  Paddling from the Oak Bottom Marina you'll cruise into Whiskeytown Lake's northwestern arm, which is closed off to boating. So you get 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!

BONUS: For a magical experience, go with Terri on a Friday Night Social, a weekly group twilight paddle starting up again on May 4. The paddle lasts about 2.5 hours and you can rent a kayak for $25. Call Headwaters Adventure Company, (530) 223-2411 to get info and rent a kayak.

Calls for a shot (or two) of post-paddle whiskey!

Whiskeytown is 8 miles west of Redding. Rent kayaks, find out about guided trips, and get more info on Friday Night Social paddles: Headwaters Adventure Company.

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