Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

Amazing beauty all throughout the area. It’s well kept, the rangers/volunteers are very nice and there is so much to do including affordable adventures. The parking pass is a bit of a pain if you sell your car as it’s a hard copy transfer system but they never give a hard copy. Seems funny for such a tree protected area to not accept digital with ID. No printer so i need to find a print shop. Still the lake and adventures around make up for it.

Always beautiful and full during summer. Incredible sunsets in the winter.

This is a small but worthwhile visitor center. You'll find all sorts of postcards, magnets, plushies, and maps here. The staff is super nice and very patient. You can pick up permits for the recreation area at this location and probably kill a lot of time just enjoying the view.

I love Whiskeytown Lake! I've been coming here my entire life, and I don't think I'll ever get over how pretty the lake is. I was so sad after the Carr Fire burned off all of the trees around the lake in 2018, but I'm so glad now that things are starting to grow back.

There used to be several telescopes you had to pay quarters to use, but now there is only one you don't have to pay for. Just don't look directly into the setting sun like my cousin did. 😂

The visitor center is also a cool place to check out, if it's open and you have time. There are a lot of fun little souvenirs you can get. I forget what time it opens, but I do remember it closes at 5 pm.

Attached to the visitor center with outside openings, there are also bathrooms here if you need. Those are always open.

Overall, whether you live in the Redding area or are just passing through, I highly recommend checking out the beauty of Whiskeytown Lake!

This was a great place to visit. I went on the Shasta Divide Trail at the Visitor center, the Tower House Historical Area and the Whiskeytown Falls Trail. All of the areas were interesting and scenic.

The Brandy beach was awesome. This place is nice for picnic and some water activities.

Such a great Park, went out there to see the severity of the Carr fire from last summer, and it definitely is not the same but still very beautiful. Lots of great memories and Good times were had out there

Our visit to this recreation area after the Sundial Bridge near Redding was truly enchanting. Nestled just outside of Redding, it's a beautiful spot teeming with natural wonders. The highlight includes mesmerizing waterfalls that add a touch of serenity to the surroundings.

For nature enthusiasts, there's an abundance of hiking trails to explore, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The diverse landscape ensures that every trail promises a unique experience, making it an ideal destination for both seasoned hikers and casual strollers alike.

A delightful surprise was the presence of a swimming beach, a perfect retreat for a hot afternoon. The opportunity to cool off in the water added an extra layer of enjoyment to our outing. Families and individuals alike can relish the sunny weather by taking a refreshing dip or simply lounging by the beach.

The overall ambiance and variety of attractions make this recreation area a gem for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you seek the thrill of hiking, the soothing sounds of waterfalls, or a relaxing time by the beach, this destination has it all, making it a must-visit spot just outside the charming city of Redding.

We drove up from the bay area to check out Lake Shasta, but Whiskeytown Lake stole the show! It's such a beautiful area! Even after the fires, there's still a beauty to it. The two waterfall hikes that are currently open are gorgeous (one is steep and strenuous, the other is wheelchair accessible and about 10 minutes along a paved, flat road)! We chilled on East Beach, which is a great place to swim, paddle board, etc! The water is COLD, perfect on a hot day! Highly recommended!

Really nice place and the visitor center is easy to get to. Great hikes along the lake and we even saw some bears, so worth having a bear bell and spray if you are going hiking around here.

There is something here for everyone. Stop by and say hello to the rangers at the visitor center. They are super knowledgeable and very friendly. They have activity suggestions for everyone, including the pooch!

A huge rec area with lots to do. We drove through and although the majority of the park burned in a wildfire, it was still beautiful and worth the drive.

Beautiful recreation area just outside of Redding. Lots of things to see including waterfalls. Lots of hiking and a swimming beach which was great for a hot afternoon. Just know you do need to get a pass at the visitors station. Lasts 7 days.

Nice place to take your family and friends for a day on the lake or for a hike or just to get out for the day so if you visit Redding CA area stop on by and have fun.....

The cleanest park ever , it will be even prettier next year after the trees come back to life after the big fires last year.

Lake by Redding!!!!!
15mns

Great recreational place with dog on leash friendly southwest side at Brandy Creek Marina. Most beaches don't allow pets. Lake is great for boating, picnicing, kayaking, SUP, and swimming. Party boats are available to rent at Oak Bottom Marina. Campground there needs refurbishing. Sites are jammed, not level, and no shade. Check Park site online for algael bloom cautions. Water is a nice temperature May through September.

I love fishing for big Bass there and it's a great place to take your family and friends to cool off in the summer just please don't forget to be courteous to other people on the lake and if you smoke not cigarettes don't forget it is federal land and it's illegal to smoke that other stuff up there so if the rangers catch you they will give you a big ticket so do not smoke up there because I have seen them give big tickets to other people who are from out of state and don't know the laws up at the lake just to let you know so be smart and have fun up at the lake 💦💦💦🎣🎣🎣🎣🎣

Its a beautiful place to take a walk and enjoy nature

Beautiful area even with the burn scar remaining.