9 Most Gorgeous Lakes In Sacramento, California

1. Folsom Lake

Situated within Placer, El Dorado, and Sacramento Counties, Folsom Lake is a reservoir at the base of the Sierra foothills. The lake and its surrounding area offer travelers almost endless opportunities for recreation. From hiking, biking, horseback riding, and camping to water-skiing and boating – there’s so much that waits for you in Folsom Lake.

Fishing in the lake offers catfish, trout, and mouth bass, so if one of your hobbies is fishing, you will surely love taking a trip to Lake Folsom. And if you’re after striking views, the lake will give you so much to marvel at.

Folsom Lake

Address: Folsom Lake, California, USA

Website: Folsom Lake

2. Shasta Lake

Dubbed as the largest reservoir in California, Shasta Lake has plenty of room to enjoy while in the area. The ideal season to visit the lake is during the summer, when the crystal water is sprinkled with jet skis, fishing boats, and almost anything that floats.

One experience you’ll surely love is staying in one of the available for rent houseboats, which will allow you to feel the rippling of the water and its refreshing vibes. Apart from scenic views of the lake, there are also other worthwhile stops around it, including a free tour of the Shasta Dam, the second-largest dam in the country, at 602 feet (183 meters).

Shasta Lake

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

Website: Shasta Lake

Nearby lakes

3. Lake Clementia

If you’re looking for the perfect lake, ideal for swimming, kayaks, and picnics, Lake Clementia is the place to go. Everything about the area, from its campground to the lake itself, is clean and completely a sight to behold. Lake Clementia is perfect for both adventure seekers and nature lovers. For those who prefer to spice up their water experience, the south side of the lake is a mixture of rugged rapids and calm coasting, excellent for daring jumps to the white water. But if you prefer to stay on the safer side, there’s a strap in the middle of the raft you can use.

There are also group activities you can enjoy here, like paddling through the current. A captain will guide you through your water experience, so you won’t have to worry.

Lake Clementia

Address: Lake Clementia, Rancho Murieta, CA 95683, USA

4. Lake Clementine

Standing on a thin boulder in the North Fork American River, Lake Clementine is one of the natural wonders in California worthy to visit. Whether you want to indulge in some water activities, like paddling or boating, or want to relax and cool off, you’ll surely find this wondrous lake perfect for what’s on your mind.

Divided into two parts: Lower Lake Clementine and Upper Lake Clementine, with each offering different experiences, you’ll have a lot of entertainment here. Aquatic sports are available on the lower lake, while swimming and white sandy beaches are offered at the upper lake. If you want to see something magical, be sure to visit the lake before sunrise.

Lake Clementine

Address: Lake Clementine, California 95603, USA

Website: Lake Clementine

5. Lake Tahoe

Dubbed as North America’s largest alpine lake, Lake Tahoe is a breathtaking natural beauty surrounded by the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains. Known for its deep, bluer-than-blue water, the lake is something that can’t be described by mere words. Imagine an alpine paradise and a winter wonderland from November to April, then a striking spring, summer, and fall. Whichever season you decide to visit, it won’t matter. You’ll get spectacular views and delightful activities. From hiking to swimming, there’s no place more worthy to visit than famous Lake Tahoe.

Lake Tahoe

Address: The Sierra Nevada, California, U.S.A.

Website: Lake Tahoe

6. New Melones Lake

A favorite destination among boaters and fishers who like to explore long deep and secluded bays, New Melones Lake is one of the most prominent lakes in California, offering all kinds of recreation. From waterskiing and boating to camping, there are a lot of things travelers can do during their visit.

Since New Melones Lake is the fourth largest lake in the state of California, there’s ample space for visitors to spread out. Facilities available in the area are budget-friendly, which makes this spot popular for locals, especially those who live in Central California. Guests can also enjoy camping in the campground, while taking in all the beauty of the place.

New Melones Lake

Address: New Melones Lake, California, USA

Website: New Melones Lake

7. Clear Lake

When in need of a breather and time away from the hectic schedule of your daily life, Clear Lake in Northern California’s Lake County is always a good place to go. Known as the largest freshwater lake in the state, Clear Lake offers travelers from different places a memorable vacation, brimming with exciting and relaxing activities.

From kayaks and fishing to sightseeing and food, there’s so much that awaits your arrival. You can even indulge in some camping, a picnic, or a morning dip in the legendary waters. This is an astounding destination for families looking for a place to create happy memories.

Clear Lake

Address: Clear Lake, California, USA

Website: Clear Lake

8. Lake Sonoma

Tucked in the impressive foothills of Northern California, Lake Sonoma is a marvelous lengthy narrow reservoir that offers a plethora of activities in the surrounding area and nearby. Surrounded by the enchanting vineyards of Sonoma County and historic spots, Lake Sonoma is the perfect setting for an abundance of leisure ventures. One fact about it – the Warm Springs Dam, which forms the lake, plays a vital role in preventing disastrous floods, storing water for locals’ everyday use, and creating a lake for recreation.

If you want to have a better understanding of this place, you can head to the Visitor Center And Fish Hatchery, which is open every day. Outdoor thrills, including camping, horseback riding, and mountain biking, are only a few of the things to expect during your visit.

Lake Sonoma

Address: Sonoma County, California

Website: Lake Sonoma

9. Donner Lake

Located in the charming district of the Sierra Nevada, a few miles from Sacramento, Donner Lake is a high alpine lake, featuring fabulous views. Surrounded by cabins and public piers, Donner Lake is quite a sight to behold. Offering summer vacationers wondrous opportunities for picnicking, fishing, camping, and boating, it’s a complete package kind of destination.

During the winter, cold season lovers can indulge in some cross-country skiing on the trails nearby the lake and enjoy the season’s charms. If your goal is to see all the wonders of California, make sure to include Donner Lake on your list of must-visits and have a fun holiday.

Donner Lake

Address: Nevada County, California, United States

Website: Donner Lake

Nothing beats the summer heat more than a refreshing dip

The best season to visit Sacramento is during the summer season, where the city’s lakes are waiting for you. Whether it’s swimming, fishing, boating, or camping you’re looking for, Sacramento has the best places for you to enjoy these activities. In case you decide to make a quick stop, don’t forget to check out our list above of the most gorgeous lakes in Sacramento, California, for the most exciting trip.