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Explore Whiskeytown National Recreation Area Beaches, waterfalls, kayaking, and more!

Home to beaches, trails, waterfalls, and of course, a giant lake, Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is home to more outdoor fun then you can shake a stick at. We've put together some of our favorite Whiskeytown activities below, so you can have the perfect day exploring everything the park has to offer!

Hit the Beach

No lake would be complete without beaches, and Whiskeytown is no exception. You can't go wrong with either Brandy Creek Beach or Oak Bottom Beach - both offer picnic tables, swimming, gorgeous views, and of course, plenty of sandy beach for all!

Hop on a Kayak

After you've had your fun on the beach, hop on a kayak and explore the lake itself! Both Brandy Creek and Oak Bottom offer kayak rentals, and during the summer the park offers free ranger-led kayaking tours.

Go Chasing Waterfalls

If you can bring yourself to leave the lake (we've been there!) head to shore and go on a hike to one of Whiskeytown's four waterfalls: Crystal Creek Falls, Brandy Creek Falls, Boulder Creek Falls, or Whiskeytown Falls. Between the four, there's a hike for every skill level, and the view of the falls is sure to please!

Note: Brandy Creek Falls and Boulder Creek Falls trails are temporarily closed for reconstruction following the Carr Fire.

Left to Right: Crystal Creek Falls, Brandy Creek Falls, Whiskeytown Falls, Boulder Creek Falls

After you're done chasing waterfalls, find a picnic area overlooking the lake and stop for dinner. There are picnic spots at both Brandy Creek and Oak Bottom beach with gorgeous views. Or, if you can't bring yourself to leave the waterfalls yet, set up at one of the picnic spots at Crystal Creek Falls with a perfect view of the falls.

See the Stars

Just because the sun's gone down, doesn't mean your day's over yet! Because of its unique position nestled within mountain ranges and miles from urban light pollution, Whiskeytown is a great place to explore the heavens. Lay on the beach and stargaze, or if you're there during the summer, join the park rangers for a Star Party or a moonlight kayak tour.