What is the best camping spot in northern california--must be by water!?

Question

We live in the SF Bay area and are looking for a good water camping spot within 3-4 hours drive.

Answer 1

You have lots of options like Lake Berryessa, Clear Lake, and further north the best lake of all is Shasta. Also camping near a stream is great too, like S.P. taylor state park in Marin. It is in the redwoods, not far from the ocean and nice and shady.

Answer 2

well....this might be a bit of a stretch, but the only lake I know of that seems to fit your bill is Lake Shasta in Northern California right off of I-5.

It's beautiful and is very popular. I know folks who annually drive down there all the way from Portland which is about a 7+ hour drive....

I dont think it's within 2-3 hours for you though. Probably a bit further from there (like 4-5 hours I think).

Hope it helps

Greg Jackson

Tigard, OR

http://www.JaxonsGottaGun.com

Answer 3

Wrights Lake in El Dorado National Forest, off of Hwy 50 before you get to Tahoe is a beautiful setting right on the lake. Lots of trails, swimming holes, fishing and great, relaxing paddling. Across the lake is a spectacular view to the Crystal Range's nearly 10,000' peaks that reflect in the lake in the morning and evening. The campground is in a nice forest to add to the serene setting. I took this picture from the campground several years ago.

http://outdoors.webshots.com/photo/13436...

Answer 4

You didn't specify "clean" water, so I guess you won't mind one of those muddy cesspool-like foothills lakes or north bay lakes others have suggested. The nearest cleanest lake I know is New Melones Reservoir, but if you really want clean then north to south: Donner Lake, Lake Tahoe, Caples Lake, Lake Alpine, and Pinecrest Lake. I was just up at Lake Alpine and it's so nice, uncrowded, with boat rentals, fish jumping, etc. Go.

http://www.lakealpinelodge.com/activitie...

Answer 5

Lake Shasta is wonderful!  It was one of my favorite places to go as a teen.  That's kind of a trek for you from the bay area though.  It's definitely worth it if you plan it out.