A Day at Lake Almanor: Your Ultimate Guide

Calling all adventure seekers! If you're on the hunt for an outdoor vacation in Northern California, look no further than Lake Almanor. This place is packed with outdoor activities, stunning views, and enough fun to keep you coming back year after year. 

Whether you’re all about high-energy water sports or just chilling by the shore, Lake Almanor, California, has something for everyone. Here’s a short guide to help you kick off your vacation with some of our favorite things to do in the area.

Outdoor Activities

Get ready to make the most of the great outdoors at the lake. From splashing in the waves to hiking through dense forests, there’s something for everyone on or off the water.

Boating and Water Sports

Lake Almanor is large enough to hit the waves at high speeds without worrying about disrupting other boaters. Whether you’ve got your own boat or you’re renting one from the local marinas (check out Lake Almanor boat rentals), you’re in for a treat. Here are a few of the most popular things to do on the water: 

• Skiing
• Wakeboarding
• Kayaking
• Paddleboarding
• Jet skiing

Fishing

Lake Almanor is known all throughout California for its excellent fishing opportunities. Want the latest scoop? The Lake Almanor fishing report will keep you updated on what’s biting and where. Here are a few of the things you’re bound to catch while on the water: 

• Rainbow trout
• Brown trout
• Smallmouth bass
• King salmon

Swimming

Grab a swimsuit and dive into the crystal-clear waters from a boat or the docks. There are plenty of great spots to splash around or work on your stroke, like Almanor Campground Beach and Canyon Dam Boat Launch. Both are perfect for cooling off with family or setting up a scenic picnic on the beach.

Hiking and Biking

For those who love to explore, the Lake Almanor Recreation Trail can be experienced on foot or on wheels. This stunning 19-mile trail winds along the lake’s western shore, offering killer views and paths for all skill levels. If you’re up for another nearby option, Lassen Volcanic National Park has even more awesome trails to check out.

Wildlife Watching

Grab your binoculars and keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife. Don’t forget your camera, and be sure to respect the animals you come across by keeping your distance. Here are some of the creatures you might run across near Lake Almanor:

• Bald eagles
• Western pond turtles
• Frogs 
• Salamanders
• Ospreys 
• Mule deer
• Bobcats
• Bears

Winter Activities

While mostly known for its summer activities, there are still a handful of popular winter activities that bring visitors in during the colder months. Snowmobiling here is top-notch, with miles of groomed trails through sleeping forests and snow-covered meadows. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also great ways to explore the area, so dress warm and bring a map.

Scenic Drives and Sightseeing

Sometimes the best way to enjoy the scenery is from the comfort of your car. Buckle up and get ready for some amazing scenic drives around the lake.

• Scenic Drives. Hop in the RV and cruise along the Lake Almanor Scenic Byway. This drive is full of stunning views, perfect pull-offs for pics, and great picnic spots. It’s especially gorgeous in the fall when the leaves light up the valley in reds and yellows.
• Picnicking. Pack a lunch and find a spot in the shade to relax and eat. There are tons of picnic areas around the lake, like the South Shore Picnic Area and Almanor Campground Beach. There really is nothing better than enjoying a homemade meal in the quiet of nature.

Relaxation and Wellness

Sometimes you just need to unwind and recharge, and the peaceful shores of Lake Almanor are the perfect place to do just that. Here are a few ways you can relax and let it all go during your time at the lake:

• Relaxing by the Lake. Maybe a no-brainer, but sometimes doing nothing is the best plan. Find a quiet spot by Lake Almanor, kick back with a hammock and a good book, and let the soothing sounds of the water work their magic. And those sunsets? Absolutely breathtaking.
• Hot Springs. After a day of adventure, treat yourself to a soak in a nearby hot spring. Drakesbad Guest Ranch in Lassen Volcanic National Park has a popular spring-fed pool that’s just the ticket for some serious relaxation.

Local Attractions

There’s plenty to discover beyond the lake as well. Take a walk through a small town, dive into the local history, or enjoy a leisurely meal with these local picks:

• Nearby Towns. Check out the quaint towns around Lake Almanor. Chester is especially popular among visitors, with a variety of local shops and dining spots to choose from. And don’t miss Westwood, where you can learn all about the area’s logging history.
• Plumas-Eureka State Park. Just a short drive away, Plumas-Eureka State Park is a goldmine of history (literally). Here you can explore historic buildings, old mining equipment, and local exhibits. Plus, the hiking trails here are excellent.
• Feather River. For more outdoor activities, head to the nearby Feather River. Whether you’re into fishing, hiking, or just soaking up the views, this river adds another great spot to take it all in.

Stay with Leisure RV Park

Lake Almanor is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a northern California escape, and be sure to check the water level and the weather in Lake Almanor before you go. Whether you’re hitting the water for some high-speed fun, hiking through beautiful trails, or just chilling by the lake, we can’t think of a better way to spend your vacation. 

When you’re done exploring the local trails or taking turns on the water, come back to Leisure RV Park for a relaxing end to your day. As one of the best Lake Almanor RV Parks, we offer full hookups and a host of modern amenities, including WiFi, laundry facilities, restrooms, and showers. We’ve made everything as convenient as possible, so the only thing you need to worry about is your next adventure.