11 Gorgeous Lakes In Northern California That You Must Check Out This Summer

Northern California is home to amazing lakes in all of its far reaches. From the alpine lakes of the Sierra and Cascades to the deep reservoirs of Shasta and Oroville, there's no shortage of crystal-clear water that's perfect for swimming and boating. Here's a list of some of the best lakes in Northern California for boating, swimming, fishing, and more, in no particular order.

1. Trinity Lake

2. Lake Almanor

This large reservoir is located on the Feather River and a great place for a mountain escape. Whether you sail, swim, or simply relax in the sun, you won't forget your time at one of the most breathtaking Northern California lakes any time soon. Fun fact: the lake was named for Alice, Martha and Eleanor, the 3 daughters of the vice president of the power company that put the dam here in 1914.

3. Lake Berryessa

The largest lake in Napa County, Berryessa is a fun place to cool off on a hot summer day. One of the best lakes in Northern California, visitors often come here for fishing, waterskiing, jet skiing, pleasure boating, kayaking and canoeing, hiking, road bicycling, motorcycle pleasure biking, birding, wildlife observation, picnicking, and swimming. It's practically paradise for anyone interested in outdoor recreation of any kind.

4. Lake Oroville

Northern Californians consider this one of the best lakes in Northern California and they have been coming here to play in the water, boat, and camp for generations. Located on the Feather River, it's a nationally renowned area for bass fishing and coho salmon are also a popular catch here. It's a favorite place for water skiers and wake boarders, as well.

5. Lake Tahoe

6. Lake Helen

This pristine, but frigid, lake in Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the most beautiful lakes in Northern California. You won't find bluer water or a better location for a picnic, either. Jump in if you dare, but know it's quite cold! The lake is ringed by Lassen Peak and other prominent mountains of the Southern Cascades.

7. Shasta Lake

One of the most popular lakes in Northern California, Shasta Lake offers some of the best boating (including houseboat rentals!) and scenery around. The red dirt beaches are a lovely contrast with the emerald waters of this man made reservoir. Known for its finger-like channels, the lake has four major arms, each created by an approaching river: The Sacramento River, the McCloud River, Squaw Creek, and the Pit River.

8. Whiskeytown

Located in the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, this is one of the Northern California lakes that is a great place for relaxing and boating. Other popular activities here include camping and fishing. Personal watercraft have been banned from the lake, so you will have to rent out a boat or paddle craft from the folks here or stick to swimming. It's great because of the 30 feet visibility of its waters and the abundance of surrounding wildlife.

9. Clear Lake

Likely the oldest lake in North America, there has been water in this location for at least 2,500,000 years. It's also the largest freshwater lake that is completely within the state (Tahoe is partially in Nevada) and is known as one of the best lakes in Northern California for Bass fishing. It even has the nickname "Bass Capital of the West" among fishermen.

10. Donner Lake

This natural, high alpine lake surrounded by cabins and featuring public piers is located in the town of Truckee. It's one of the best lakes in Northern California for for paddling, swimming, and is located right off of Interstate 80.

11. Lake Siskiyou

Did we nail it on the head with this list of awesome lakes in Northern California? Are there any other places that you would add to the list?