Whiskeytown National Recreation Area Ranger Guided Programs
Join a Whiskeytown Park Ranger at the Oak Bottom Marina. The Park Ranger will pilot a patio boat from Oak Bottom Marina on 1.5 hour tour across Whiskeytown Lake. Whiskeytown Lake is nestled among the hills and valleys of the Klamath Mountains in northern California. The Lake features a 36-mile shoreline and a surface area of 3,200 acres. The reservoir remains full in summer, providing exceptional water recreation in a beautiful mountain setting. Heavy winter rains, long dry summers, and frequent wildfires create diverse habitats, from old-growth forests to oak woodlands and chaparral. Over 1,100 plant and animal species live here, including gray pine, blue oak, black bear and rainbow trout. People have valued this land for thousands of years. The discovery of gold nearby in 1848, only months after it was found farther south at Sutter’s Mill, brought fortune hunters known as 49ers. Today people continue to value the cultural history, clean water, wildlife habitat, power-generating facilities, and numerous recreational opportunities provided and protected by this park.Select a date to see a list of times
Lifejackets are provided for all participants. Children, ages 12 and under, will be required to wear a lifejacket at all times. We recommend wearing cool and breathable clothing and footwear that you are comfortable getting wet. Sunglasses, sunscreen and hats are highly recommended. Please bring water to drink and snacks if desired.
If you arrive late and miss the safety briefing, you will not be permitted on the program. Please plan for summer traffic and other unforeseen delays.
The tour is free. A non-refundable $1.00 reservation fee per person applies. If you have made reservations and are unable to reschedule or attend your scheduled tour, please cancel your reservation to open space for other participants, as all tours are in high demand. Park staff cancel tours for unsafe conditions, including but not limited to insufficient staffing, extreme or inclement weather, and wild fires.
Firearms, alcoholic beverages, coolers, smoking, pets. Bring electronic equipment (cameras, phones, watches) at your own risk.