1. Lake Tahoe

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Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe is a breathtaking freshwater lake that straddles two states - California (South Lake Tahoe) and Nevada (North Lake Tahoe). There are plenty of beautiful beaches in this majestic lake where people can swim and do plenty of fun water activities. You’ll also find excellent ski resorts in Lake Tahoe, which is why it’s an ideal go-to destination even during winter. Along the magnificent lake’s miles of shoreline, in the southwestern area, lies Emerald Bay State Park. This gorgeous destination is a natural park home to Vikingsholm - a 20th-century mansion that showcases nordic architecture.

Lake Tahoe's Emerald Bay Cruise on M.S. Dixie II

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2. Clear Lake

Clear Lake is located in Lake County in California, north of San Francisco and Napa County. Clear Lake is officially known as the largest natural freshwater lake in all of California. Its surface covers an area of 180 square kilometers (68 square miles). According to studies, Clear Lake is two and a half million years old. It is referred to as the “Bass Capital of the West,” as largemouth bass make up a huge portion of fish caught in the lake. Aside from being a bass fishing lake, it is home to plenty of fish species including catfish, carp, bluegill, and crappie. That’s why it’s a popular spot for fishing opportunities. Watersports are also a popular activity here as lots of people love to enjoy wakeboarding, water skiing, and sailing.

Clear Lake

Address: Lake County, California

Website: Clear Lake

3. Shasta Lake

Shasta Lake is the product of Shasta Dam, aptly found in Shasta County, California. This lake is one of the ten tallest dams in United States and California’s largest reservoir. Its main purpose is to benefit Sacramento Valley residents with flood control and generating electricity. The vast ground surrounding this lake is also a popular destination in California for the Lake Shasta Caverns and several marinas such as Bridge Bay Marina, Digger Bay Marina, Shasta Marina Resort, and more. You can dine in any of the marinas’ wide range of restaurants and find appealing souvenirs in the many shops. So guests can enjoy the waters and sail the lake, fishing and pontoon boat rentals are also available in the area.

Shasta Lake

Address: Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Shasta County, California

Website: Shasta Lake

4. Lake Havasu

Planning your next family vacation? Take the family to Lake Havasu and spend the weekend swimming, fishing, and more fun activities. Lake Havasu is a manmade reservoir located in San Bernardino County and is a famous tourist attraction, especially for students during spring break. In the late spring and warm summer months, the lake is a favorable destination for people who want to relax. For tourists who visit during winter, be on the lookout for migrating snowbirds. This lake is located along the borders of California and Arizona. On the equally scenic Arizona side, the exciting campground of Lake Havasu State Park is located. Lake Havasu City, Arizona also patterned its name from this large reservoir.

Lake Havasu

Address: Lake Havasu City, Parker

Website: Lake Havasu

5. Convict Lake

Another breathtaking lake that can be found in California is Convict Lake. You’ll find this stunning paradise in Mono County. With amazing views of the Sierra Nevada Mountains as its backdrop, this popular lake connects its visitors more with nature. Aside from its beautiful scenery surrounded by mountains, this natural wonder is famous for its enchanting turquoise-blue waters. For tourists who like to go fishing, prepare for a long day of battling trout as this lake has an abundance of this fish species. This destination is only a 15-minute drive from another famous natural spot called Mammoth Lakes, nestled in the foothills of Mammoth Mountain.

Convict Lake

Address: Mono County, California

Website: Convict Lake

6. Honey Lake

Located in northeastern California, Honey Lake is a 66-acre (27-hectares) glacial lake in Honey Lake Valley. The waters from this lake originally come from Glassy Lake Drain, flowing through Flint Creek and so on. The area around Honey Lake is rich in sagebrush plants and is scenic, giving you a melancholic vibe. Aside from fishing, visitors can go non-motorized boating in this natural wonder. Those who enjoy fishing can test their luck catching largemouth bass, northern pike, panfish, and trout in Honey Lake.

Honey Lake

Address: Great Basin, Lassen County, California, United States

7. Donner Lake

Donner Lake is a stunning freshwater lake in northeast California and is situated on the eastern foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It is 20 miles (32 kilometers) away from Lake Tahoe, making it another excellent stop for people exploring El Dorado County. This scenic lake is known for its breathtaking beaches that are favorable for swimming, fishing, and watersports. Lifeguards patrol these beaches, making them ideal and safe holiday destinations for water adventures. For tourists who like adventures, biking, hiking, and camping are also popular activities at Donner Lake. Visit Donner Memorial State Park and enjoy reconnecting with nature and stargazing.

Donner Lake

Address: Nevada County, California, United States

8. Pyramid Lake

Pyramid Lake is situated in Southern California, specifically in Piru Creek. It is a functional reservoir and a popular destination for tourists and locals alike in Los Angeles County. This body of water offers stunning scenery and plenty of outdoor activities for visitors. It is an excellent place for swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, pedal boating, and paddle boarding. Some of the fish that can be caught here include largemouth bass, bluegill, cutthroat and brown trout, striped bass, and smallmouth bass. With the developed campground near the famous lake, guests can embark on camping and hiking activities. The place is a great picnic spot as well.

Pyramid Lake

Address: Angeles National Forest / Los Padres National Forest; Los Angeles County, California

Website: Pyramid Lake

9. Lake Oroville

Those taking a trip to Butte County, make sure to spend a day or two in Lake Oroville. It is a huge reservoir, located 5 miles (8 kilometers) away from Oroville City. The surrounding area is called Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, and it is a hub for outdoor activities. Aside from recreational opportunities such as swimming and boating, this natural park also has miles of hiking trails where you can marvel at the beauty of nature. Plus, there’s a camping area a few steps from the shore of the blue-water lake. It also has a visitor center with cutting-edge telescopes that allow visitors to see the area’s beauty through high-end lenses.

Lake Oroville

Address: Oroville East, Butte County, California

Website: Lake Oroville

10. Lake Almanor

Located in northwestern Plumas County, Lake Almanor is a 1,308,000 acre (529,329 hectares) reservoir in California. It is the largest lake in the county. It is home to many breathtaking beaches and has several communities with diverse offerings for tourists to explore. Popular activities here include swimming, boating, fishing, and entertainment events held in Lake Almanor, such as annual musical events. Hiking and camping spots are also nearby this lake. On a different note, art enthusiasts will surely love the rotating exhibits featured in the Almanor Art Show held every August.

Lake Almanor

Address: Plumas County, California

Website: Lake Almanor

Reconnect with nature in California

California is a breathtaking state that is home to plenty of beautiful lakes and scenic views. If you are the type of tourist who likes to reconnect with nature and do outdoor activities, you’ll love taking a trip to any of the amazing lakes listed above. You’re sure to have a great time at any of these breathtaking bodies of water.