Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

Highway 299 near Highway 5.
8 miles west of Redding
Whiskeytown, California 96095
Visit Website
Local Phone: (530) 246-1225

Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is geographically situated at the juncture of the Klamath Mountain Range and the northern edge of the Central Valley, making it home to a diverse collection of animal and plant life.  The park provides outdoor enthusiasts with excellent opportunities for water recreation, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and camping. Whiskeytown Lake’s beautiful sapphire-blue waters, surrounded by mountain peaks, are perhaps the most prominent feature of the park.  However, water-based recreation is only a small part of what the park has to offer. The 39,000 acres surrounding the lake hold four waterfalls, pristine mountain creeks, 70 miles of trails, and opportunities to explore the history of the California Gold Rush.

•Leashed dogs are allowed on most Whiskeytown trails.
•Dogs are not allowed at four designated swimming beaches.
•Admission is $5 a day, $10 a week or $25 annually. Day-use passes may be purchased at 11 pay-by-envelope stations throughout the park or at the Visitor Center. 
•From Interstate 5, take the Highway 44 West exit toward downtown Redding and Eureka. From downtown Redding, follow Highway 299 west toward Eureka for approximately 8 miles to reach the Visitor Center.
• The Oak Bottom campground is operated by Forever Resorts, which also operates a marina and has boat rentals.