From the crystal-clear alpine water of Lake Tahoe to the ancient tufa towers of Mono Lake and dozens of sprawling reservoirs, California's lakes are among the state's greatest outdoor draws. Many are man-made and central to the state's water supply, but all of them serve up beaches, boating, fishing and unforgettable scenery.
Whether you're chasing high-Sierra glacial lakes, desert reservoirs, or a family beach day, there's a lake for every kind of trip. Here are the 25 best lakes in California.
Fun Facts About Lakes in California
North America's largest alpine lake: Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and the second-deepest lake in the United States, reaching a maximum depth of about 1,645 feet.
Mono Lake is ancient: Mono Lake is one of the oldest lakes in North America, formed at least 760,000 years ago, and its shoreline is studded with otherworldly calcium-carbonate tufa towers.
Shasta is California's largest reservoir: Shasta Lake is California's largest reservoir by capacity, holding water behind Shasta Dam on the upper Sacramento River.
Clear Lake is the oldest: Clear Lake is considered the oldest lake in North America and is the largest natural freshwater lake located entirely within California, covering about 68 square miles.
Many "lakes" are reservoirs: Many of California's best-known "lakes" are actually man-made reservoirs, forming the backbone of the state's water-storage and supply system.
Straddling the California-Nevada border high in the Sierra Nevada, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America and the second-deepest in the US. Its crystal-clear water mirrors snow-capped peaks, and the shoreline delivers on every front, with sandy beaches for summer and celebrated ski resorts once the powder arrives.
Base yourself in buzzy South Tahoe or the quieter, pine-fringed North Shore, whichever suits your pace. Don't miss the southwest corner, where famous Emerald Bay curves around tiny Fannette Island and the storied Vikingsholm mansion. It's a place that rewards slow days, whether you're swimming, hiking the ridgelines, or simply soaking up the view.
Rising beside the Tioga Pass entrance to Yosemite near Lee Vining, Mono Lake is an ancient endorheic salt lake formed at least 760,000 years ago. With no outlet to the sea, its salty, alkaline water has slowly grown otherworldly, giving this high-desert basin a stark, timeless beauty unlike anywhere else in California.
The lake holds no fish, yet its water teems with brine shrimp that feed huge numbers of nesting California gulls. Strangest of all are the tufa towers, surreal spires of calcium carbonate that rise straight from the surface. Wander the shoreline at golden hour to watch these ghostly formations glow against the water.
Just about half an hour from Sacramento, Lake Berryessa is a sprawling reservoir made for a full day on the water. Swim, cast a line, or launch into water sports, then pull up at the marina to rent a boat and explore. Campsites along the shore make it easy to turn a quick trip into a weekend.
Anglers love it here, with crappie, catfish, bass, and trout all on the menu, while the west shore offers hiking for those who'd rather stay on land. The lake's signature curiosity is the Glory Hole spillway, a giant circular drain that appears when the water runs high, a genuinely mesmerizing sight when conditions line up.
Cradled in Shasta County, Shasta Lake is California's largest reservoir by capacity, a sprawling expanse of tranquil blue water tucked into a natural setting of forested shoreline. Its many arms and hidden caverns invite slow, unhurried exploration, and the whole scene feels wonderfully removed from the rush of everyday life the moment you arrive.
Rent a boat and drift up the Sacramento Arm, weaving past quiet coves and shadowed caverns waiting to be discovered. All that water is held back by the graceful, 602-foot-high curve of Shasta Dam, an engineering marvel worth a closer look. Free tours lead you across the top for sweeping views over the reservoir below.
High in the San Bernardino Mountains, Big Bear Lake shares its name with the small city that hugs its shore. Named for the bears once commonly sighted nearby, this scenic, expansive lake anchors one of the region's biggest tourism and recreation areas, drawing visitors up into the mountains year-round to enjoy the water and the wider surroundings.
In winter the mood shifts to the slopes, and nearby Bear Mountain becomes a popular destination for skiing, with runs that are especially great for beginners finding their footing. Come the warmer months, the fishing is good and the setting stays as scenic as ever, making this a rewarding stop whatever the season and however you like to spend your days outdoors.
Tucked into the San Bernardino Mountains about half an hour from San Bernardino, Silverwood Lake is a reservoir fed by a tributary of the Mojave River. It anchors the Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area, where the famous Pacific Crest Trail threads along the shoreline, making it an easy detour for hikers and road-trippers alike.
Sandy swim beaches invite a lazy afternoon by the water, while boat launches and steady fishing keep anglers and paddlers happy. An easy loop trail circles the shore for a gentle stretch of the legs. Come autumn, golden fall foliage lights up the surrounding slopes and mirrors on the surface, a quiet payoff for anyone who lingers.
Held back by Oroville Dam, the tallest dam in the United States, Lake Oroville is California's second-largest reservoir and a vital water source for the state. It's the centerpiece of the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, drawing anglers, boaters, and campers to its sprawling shoreline year-round.
Time your visit around the Fourth of July, when fireworks burst over the water, or catch one of the seasonal salmon festivals. Beyond the events, you'll find fishing, camping, and miles of hiking trails to explore, plus a museum and sweeping views that reward anyone who makes the climb.
Straddling the California-Arizona border, Havasu Lake is a reservoir on the Colorado River, formed by the Parker Dam. It's a magnet for water-lovers, drawing boaters, water-skiers and every kind of water-sports enthusiast to its sun-warmed surface. Small communities line both shores, so a good meal or a bit of shopping is never far from the water.
Cross to the Arizona side and you'll find Lake Havasu State Park along with Lake Havasu City, whose claim to fame is the original London Bridge, dismantled in England and rebuilt here stone by stone. Whether you come to play on the water or wander the lakeside towns, this border reservoir makes an easy, rewarding stop.
Cradled high above the town of Mammoth Lakes, the Mammoth Lakes Basin gathers a string of blue alpine lakes beneath a wall of mountains. Wander between Twin Lakes, Lake Mamie, Horseshoe Lake, Lake Mary and Lake George, each a glassy pool ringed by granite peaks and evergreen forest.
In winter the surrounding slopes draw skiers to their famous resorts, while summer brings climbing, canoeing, hiking and fishing across the basin. For the grandest perspective, ride the Mammoth gondola as it climbs to a cafe, a museum and sweeping views out over the lakes, forests and jagged ridgelines below.
Ringed by mountains and fed by creeks and waterfalls, Whiskeytown Lake is a clear mountain lake at the heart of the Whiskeytown Recreation Area. Come for boating, fishing and swimming, then trade the water for the surrounding trails. A lookout by the visitor center frames the whole scene and makes an easy first stop.
The water runs shallow and warm enough that kids and swimmers of every stripe feel right at home, and steady breezes make it a fine spot for sailing. An easy, accessible lakeside path hugs the shoreline for anyone who prefers to stay dry. Between the mountain backdrop and the gentle water, it's a place that rewards a slow visit.
Tucked into the eastern Sierra Nevada, Convict Lake is a turquoise beauty ringed by rugged peaks, prized by anglers for its trout fishing and by photographers for its mirror-still water. An easy 2.5-mile loop trail circles the shore, with a boardwalk carrying you along the eastern edge and mountains reflected at every turn.
Rent a boat or kayak to drift across the glassy surface, or come in winter when fresh snow makes the whole basin feel magical. The lake earns its dramatic name from a group of convicts who escaped jail and hid in these mountains, a chase that ended in a deadly shootout among the very peaks you're admiring.
Folsom Lake is a reservoir on the American River and an easy pick for a relaxed day outdoors. Sandy swimming beaches slope into calm, warm water that's ideal for family outings, while boat launches make it simple to get out on the reservoir. Picnic areas and campgrounds round out the recreation area, so you can linger from morning through the evening.
The vibe here is laid-back, and the reservoir is surrounded by plenty of open space, with room for dogs and vehicle access on some of the beaches. That easy access is a real bonus for loading up gear or the whole family. Just watch your step as you explore, since you'll come across rocks and patches of uneven ground along the way.
Donner Lake is a tranquil glacial lake tucked into the Sierra Nevada near the mountain town of Truckee, California. It sits in the same rugged country where the ill-fated Donner Party was stranded, a sobering chapter of Western history. A natural moraine acts as a dam, holding back these clear, cold alpine waters against a backdrop of forested peaks.
Outdoor lovers come here to fish, hike, ski, mountaineer, and mountain bike across every season. On the eastern shore, Donner Memorial State Park hosts the Emigrant Trail Museum and a commemorative monument. Along the north shore runs the historic Lincoln Highway, the first automobile road to cross America, adding a nostalgic thread to this scenic Sierra escape.
High in Yosemite National Park, Tenaya Lake is a glacial gem whose calm, mirror-like surface reflects the surrounding mountains. Reached by Tioga Road, it opens to visitors once the high country thaws, so plan your trip for the warmer months when the pass is generally clear. It's a serene place to slow down and take in the scenery.
Come to cast a line, wade into the cool water, or drift across the surface in a non-motorized boat. Ambitious hikers can trade the shoreline for a rewarding trail that climbs from the lake toward Clouds Rest. Late spring through fall is the sweet spot, so aim for that general window and enjoy the alpine calm.
Tucked between the Sierra National Forest and Yosemite National Park, Bass Lake pairs easy scenery with real room to roam. Picnic areas frame the shoreline, and the water invites swimming, rafting, boating, kayaking and water skiing. Just come prepared: the lake stays refreshingly chilly even at the height of summer.
The two shores split the workload nicely. The east side holds the resorts, stores and cabins, while the west side offers parking, restrooms and easygoing day-use areas, plus plenty of campsites for an overnight stay. When you're ready to earn your view, hike the Mono Trail, which climbs to a scenic payoff well worth the effort.
June Lake sits at the heart of the scenic, winding June Lake Loop, an easy and beautiful drive off Highway 395 on the way to Mammoth Lakes. The route threads past mountains, lakes, forests and desert, with abundant wildlife along the way, making the journey to this popular fishing lake as memorable as the destination itself.
Anglers come for the fishing, but the setting rewards anyone who lingers. It's a great spot for camping, offering a restful base between fishing sessions where you can slow down and take in the surrounding scenery. Cast a line, set up camp, and let the quiet mountain surroundings turn a day trip into an unhurried stay.
Tucked into the hills near Santa Barbara, Lake Cachuma is a roughly 3,100-acre man-made reservoir built for easy escapes from city noise. Its tranquil setting draws campers, boaters and anglers, and if you'd rather stay dry, quiet beaches invite you to spread out and soak in the surrounding nature.
Explore the lake's expanse aboard a cruise, or paddle its edges in a smaller boat at your own pace. Guided tours deliver excellent wildlife viewing, so keep your eyes on the shoreline and skies. When the day winds down, cozy yurt rentals let you linger overnight without ever pitching a tent.
Lake Almanor is a large man-made reservoir framed by evergreen forest and mountain scenery, with sweeping views toward Lassen Peak. It's a favorite for anglers and water-sports lovers alike, where jet skiing, sailing and canoeing share the water with plenty of quiet fishing. The setting feels wide open, calm and unmistakably wild.
Cast a line here for bass, trout, salmon and catfish, then trade the boat for a stroll along the paved trail that winds through the surrounding pines. When you're ready for a break, the small town of Chester sits nearby with restaurants, a gas station and a grocery store, making it an easy, well-stocked base for a lakeside getaway.
Completed in 1959, Lake Casitas is a man-made reservoir tucked into the hills, and it has long been a favorite for anglers chasing bass. Rowers and boaters share the calm water too, while shoreline campgrounds make it easy to settle in for a night or two beneath the oaks.
Hiking trails wind through the surrounding wildlife country, where you might spot bald eagles, turkey vultures, or a roadrunner darting past. There's no body contact with the water, so swimming is off the table, but the campground's water park and its lazy river give families a splashy, easygoing way to cool down.
Clear Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake located entirely within California, sprawling across about 68 square miles and ringed by mountains and recreation parks. Above its shoreline rises Mount Konocti, a volcano that gives the whole basin a dramatic backdrop. It's a rewarding spot for boating, hiking, bird watching and fishing.
Beyond the water, the surrounding countryside has become a growing wine-tasting region, increasingly spoken of alongside Napa and Sonoma. Life here moves at a refreshingly slow pace, and a handful of great restaurants reward anyone who lingers. It's an easygoing escape for travelers who prefer scenery, good food and quiet days on the lake.
Ringed by mountain views and alive with birdsong, Castaic Lake is a peaceful reservoir made for easy days on the water. The launch makes getting a boat out simple, and beyond boating you'll find swimming, picnic facilities, playgrounds and multi-use trails winding along the shore, a quiet escape for families and anglers alike.
Cast a line and you might reel in trout, striped bass or a hefty catfish, making this a rewarding spot for a relaxed fishing trip. The friendly staff are happy to help, and they'll tell you the same thing every regular knows: arrive early if you want to rent a boat before the best of the day slips away.
Lake Hemet is an artificial mountain lake made for boating, fishing, camping, and hiking, and it's especially scenic in winter when the surrounding mountains turn snow-capped. There's something striking about finding a lake like this so close to the desert near Palm Springs, tucked into the hills above the heat.
Getting here is half the pleasure, with a beautiful scenic drive winding up into the mountains toward a genuinely pleasant respite from the valley below. One thing to keep in mind: swimming isn't recommended, as the lake sees recurring algae blooms, so save your visit for the water, the trails, and the views.
Ringed by rugged peaks, Pyramid Lake is a favorite spot for fishing, boating and camping, with an on-site education center to round out the day. Pull off Highway 5 for the stunning views from above, then settle in for a lunch stop at Vaquero Beach, a relaxed place to unwind right by the water.
It makes a handy rest point on the way to or from Bakersfield, an easy break to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery. One thing to keep in mind: recurring algae blooms can sometimes make the water unsafe, so check conditions before wading in and plan to relax on the shore instead if the lake isn't cooperating.
Tucked among rolling vineyards, Lake Sonoma is a scenic reservoir that pairs easygoing water recreation with quiet natural beauty. Rent a boat or a jet-ski to explore the shoreline, or set up camp and stay the weekend. It's a tranquil spot beloved by nature lovers, with landscapes that beg to be photographed and picnicked beside.
Beyond the water, the surrounding park keeps you busy with an archery range and a disc golf course. Spend a morning hiking the hills, spread out a picnic, then round out the day at one of the nearby vineyards. Whether you come to boat or simply unwind, it's an effortlessly relaxing escape for the whole crew.
Tucked off Highway 152 amid rolling hills, San Luis Reservoir is a sprawling body of water made for fishing and hiking. It's especially lovely in spring, when wildflowers spill across the green slopes. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife, too, as elk, deer and bobcats all roam these hills.
For a mellower outing, head to the adjacent O'Neill Forebay, a kid-friendly spot that makes for a relaxed day out. The fishing here is good and the setting easygoing, so it's an ideal companion stop for families or anyone wanting a gentler pace beside the water after exploring the larger reservoir.
Free Things to Do at California Lakes
Most of California's lakes are free or low-cost to enjoy, and some of the best experiences cost nothing at all:
Walk the surreal tufa shoreline at Mono Lake or take in the view of Emerald Bay at Lake Tahoe.
By surface area, the largest lake in California is the Salton Sea, a shallow saline lake in the southern desert. The largest natural freshwater lake located entirely within the state is Clear Lake, while Lake Tahoe is larger overall but is shared with Nevada.
What is the deepest lake in California?
Lake Tahoe is the deepest lake in California, with a maximum depth of about 1,645 feet, making it the second-deepest lake in the entire United States after Crater Lake in Oregon.
What is the clearest lake in California?
Lake Tahoe is famous for its exceptional water clarity, with visibility that often reaches 60 to 70 feet down. Its striking cobalt-blue color and clean alpine water make it one of the clearest large lakes in North America.
What is the oldest lake in California?
Clear Lake, in Lake County, is the oldest lake in California and is widely regarded as the oldest lake in North America. Mono Lake is another of the continent's most ancient lakes, dating back at least 760,000 years.
Are there natural lakes in California?
Yes. While many California lakes are man-made reservoirs, the state has numerous natural lakes, including Lake Tahoe, Clear Lake, Mono Lake, and the many glacial tarns of the Sierra Nevada high country.
What is the best lake in California to visit?
Lake Tahoe is the most popular and highly rated lake to visit, prized for its clear water, beaches, and year-round recreation. Other top choices include June Lake and the Mammoth Lakes basin in the Eastern Sierra.
Which California lakes can you swim in?
Many California lakes are open for swimming, including Lake Tahoe, Shasta Lake, Lake Berryessa, and Big Bear Lake, most of which have designated swim beaches. Saline lakes such as Mono Lake are generally not recommended for swimming.
