The 9 Best Lakes in California for Outdoor Adventures

From the mountainous terrain in the north to the arid deserts of the south, California is home to a vast array of landscapes and scenery — many of which include sparkling freshwater lakes. The best lakes in California allow visitors to enjoy their favorite outdoor activities against an impossibly beautiful backdrop while also discovering the history of the land itself.

If you are planning a trip to the Golden State, below we break down the nine best lakes in California for outdoor adventures.

Easily the most famous of all the California lakes, Lake Tahoe is one of the state's beloved tourist attractions. Despite the fact that this lake attracts more than 2 million visitors each year, it is still a destination that people find to be calming and restorative. It is one of the largest lakes in California, and its captivating natural beauty is one of the main reasons that people visit. In addition, the lake is home to a host of popular activities, including bear watching excursions, waterfall hikes, golfing and skiing. While the Lake Tahoe area boasts a plethora of fine dining options and après-ski locations, one of the most unique dining experiences can be found on the water. The Lake Tahoe Evening Dinner Cruise combines the elegance of waterfront dining with a historic excursion, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing meal as you sail along the shores of the lake at sunset.

Situated on the southern border of California near Arizona, Lake Havasu is a reservoir that was originally created to provide water and power to the local area, but has since become a treasured waterfront destination. Fed by the Colorado River, which flows through the region and serves as a vital water source for multiple states, Lake Havasu stretches for more than 45 miles. This innovative reservoir is a favorite among boaters, particularly those who like to cruise while enjoying the southwestern landscape that surrounds them. If you want to extend your time and fully absorb the Lake Havasu experience, you may want to consider renting a houseboat.

After Lake Tahoe, Big Bear Lake is probably the most popular lake in California. This year-round tourist destination is a flurry of activity, no matter the season, making it an ideal place for active travelers who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere. The summer is a popular time for families to visit, especially those who are ready to get out, explore and discover their next adventure. Favorite summertime activities in Big Bear Lake include zip lining, mountain biking, boating and rock climbing. In addition, the lake is home to several kid-friendly attractions, such as a zoo and a go-kart track, adding an element of classic family fun to any trip. During the winter, you will find travelers embracing the cold air and fresh-fallen snow through exciting activities such as snow tubing, skiing and snowboarding.

While many of the top lakes in California are well-known and frequented by high volumes of tourists throughout the entire year, there are a few hidden gems that are still relatively undiscovered. Shaver Lake is one of those lesser-known locales, making it a perfect destination for couples and families searching for an authentic and relaxing lakefront vacation in California.

If you are planning a trip to Shaver Lake, be sure to carve out plenty of time to enjoy the nearby hot springs. These natural hot springs offer a restorative experience, particularly after a day of hiking or boating. In addition to relaxing and soaking up the landscape, you also will find that Shaver Lake is an excellent fishing spot. Anglers will find that they can catch rainbow trout, smallmouth bass and kokanee salmon, depending on the time of year that they visit.

June Lake is a sprawling natural lake that is a treasured year-round destination, but is particularly popular during the fall. When the autumn air arrives each year, the leaves on the trees surrounding the lake turn shades of gold, crimson and bronze, creating an artistic landscape that is unlike anything else in California.

Regardless of the time of year that you visit June Lake, you will find that this is the perfect spot to enjoy all of your favorite water activities, including boating, swimming and fishing. Avid fishers often spend their time hoping to catch all four varieties of trout that call this lake home, adding a competitive edge to a day of fishing.

Considered to be one of the original resort destinations in California, June Lake has no shortage of places to stay. The Double Eagle Resort and Spa is a AAA Three Diamond-designated hotel known for its rustic charm and family-friendly cabin accommodations. Its convenient location on the June Lake Loop ensures that you can easily access the best that this lake has to offer.

When you are daydreaming about the best lakes in California to visit, you probably conjure up images of pine-lined shores and sparkling blue waters. Mono Lake, however, is entirely different from anything else in California. When you arrive at this rustic and remote lake, you may feel like you have stepped onto the shores of another planet. This is one of the oldest lakes in North America and it has a salinity level that is three times higher than the ocean, which has contributed to the formation of spire-like tufa towers, which emerge from the bright blue waters of the lake. Hiking and boating are particularly popular on Mono Lake, and you are even allowed to swim. However, keep in mind, the high levels of salt make true swimming difficult. More than likely you'll be floating along the calm waters of this idyllic lake.

Lake Hemet has long been considered to be one of the best camping destinations in Southern California, due to its scenic views and the abundance of wildlife that call this area home. This family-friendly destination near Mountain Center offers all of the simple, fun activities that you want out of a relaxing outdoor vacation, including hiking, fishing, boating and swimming. During the summer, there is a designated swim area, giving families with children the comfort and confidence they need to let their kids play in the water. In addition, anyone can try their hand at fishing at this lake, as there are day-use boats available to rent.

Tucked away in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Convict Lake is one of the best-kept secrets in California. Featuring a dramatic landscape that will take your breath away, this lake offers a quiet respite from many of the other top lakes in California, which are full of tourists on any given day. Here, you can take a moment to absorb the scenery that surrounds you and appreciate the natural beauty of the mountains. As this lake primarily attracts outdoor enthusiasts, there are few tourist activities and attractions in the area. For the most part, visitors to Convict Lake spend their time hiking the local trails and fishing for trout in the clear blue waters. At the end of your day in Convict Lake, you will find that The Restaurant at Convict Lake offers a cozy spot to enjoy a nourishing meal.

Famously known for being the landscape that Woody Guthrie was looking at as he wrote "This Land is Your Land," Shasta Lake is one of the most stunning California lakes. Most travelers who visit Shasta Lake rent a houseboat and they spend their time exploring the shorelines and coves of this pristine lake. As one of the largest reservoirs in Northern California, this lake has become a popular year-round destination.

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