Lake County Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Lake County. Read this guide and explore the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and much more.


Introduction to Lake County

Lake County is a hidden gem located in the North Coast of California, United States. Known as the “Jewel of the North Coast,” this region is set against the backdrop of majestic mountains, rolling hills, and picturesque vineyards. Lake County is famous for its crystal-clear lakes, unspoiled natural beauty, and breathtaking landscapes.

If you’re planning a trip to Northern California, Lake County is a must-visit destination. It’s perfect for visitors who love outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and scenic drives. This guide will take you through the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Lake County.

List of Places to Visit in Lake County

Here are some of the best places to visit in Lake County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Anderson Marsh State Historic Park
  • Lake County Museum
  • Historic Downtown Lakeport

Natural Attractions of Lake County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Clear Lake State Park
  • Mount Konocti
  • Cache Creek Vineyards & Winery
  • Highland Springs Recreation Area
  • Mendocino National Forest

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lake County

Lake County offers a wide range of hike and bike trails for visitors of all skill levels. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Mt. Konocti County Park
  • Indian Valley Reservoir Trail
  • Cache Creek Wilderness
  • Red Hills Trail

Best Things to Do in Lake County: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adrenaline-pumping adventure, Lake County has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Horseback Riding at Clear Lake State Park
  • Soar Above Lake County with Skydiving
  • Canoeing and Kayaking at Clear Lake
  • Tee Off at One of Several Golf Courses
  • Take a Scenic Drive Along Route 29
  • Stargaze from Mount Konocti.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lake County

Here’s a week-long itinerary for exploring Lake County:

Day 1:

  • Visit Clear Lake State Park
  • Go fishing or swimming at the lake

Day 2:

  • Visit Anderson Marsh State Historic Park
  • Explore the museum and learn about the history of Lake County

Day 3:

  • Take a scenic drive on Route 29
  • Stop at any of the vineyards and wineries along the way

Day 4:

  • Go hiking at Mount Konocti
  • Enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside

Day 5:

  • Go kayaking or canoeing at Clear Lake
  • Take a picnic lunch and relax by the lake

Day 6:

  • Go horseback riding at Highland Springs Recreation Area
  • Explore the park and enjoy the scenery

Day 7:

  • Wrap up your week with a tour of the local farmers’ market
  • Buy some local produce, arts and crafts, and souvenirs to bring home

Food and Drink Scene of Lake County

Lake County has a vibrant food and drink scene, with numerous restaurants and wineries to choose from. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wild king salmon
  • Lake County lamb
  • Blue corn tortillas

Local Beverages

  • Sauvignon Blanc from Steele Wines
  • Cabernet Franc from Borrowed Time
  • Riesling from Chacewater Winery

Where to Stay in Lake County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lake County offers visitors several options for lodging, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels and guesthouses. Here are some of the best places to stay in Lake County:

  • Tallman Hotel
  • Featherbed Railroad Bed & Breakfast Resort
  • WorldMark Clear Lake Resort

What to Buy in Lake County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lake County has many exciting souvenirs and local products that you can take home with you. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Homemade goods, including honey, jams, and olive oil
  • Local wines and spirits
  • Handmade arts and crafts

Local Culture and Customs of Lake County

Lake County has a rich cultural heritage that is still visible in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals. Visitors can learn about the area’s culture and customs by attending local events and festivals, such as the Clover Valley Beer Festival and the Kelseyville Pear Festival.

Best Time to Visit Lake County

The best time to visit Lake County is during the summer months (June-August). The weather is mild, and the lakes offer numerous opportunities for swimming, boating, and other water activities. The fall is another great time to visit, with the changing colors of the foliage, local harvest festivals, and great hiking opportunities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lake County

Do:

  • Explore the natural surroundings
  • Visit local wineries and farms
  • Attend cultural events and festivals

Don’t:

  • Disturb local wildlife or natural habitats
  • Litter or pollute the lakes and natural surroundings
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Lake County

Lake County is generally a safe destination for visitors. However, some areas may be prone to wildfires and other natural disasters. Visitors should check local weather and wildfire conditions before venturing out into the wilderness.

Health in Lake County

Lake County has several medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, should you need medical attention.

Getting to Lake County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lake County

The closest airports to Lake County are Sacramento International Airport (SMF) and San Francisco International Airport (SFO).

Bus Stations Near Lake County

Greyhound and Amtrak provide bus and train services to Lake County.

Other Options

Driving is the most popular way to reach Lake County, as there are several highways that connect the area to other parts of Northern California.

How to Get Around in Lake County

Visitors can rent a car or use the local bus service to explore the region’s numerous attractions, scenic routes, and hiking trails.

Where to Go Next from Lake County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lake County is a great starting point for exploring other charming towns and tourist destinations in Northern California. Some of the nearby places worth visiting include:

  • Napa Valley
  • Sonoma County
  • Mendocino
  • Ukiah

Conclusion

Lake County is a beautiful and diverse destination, offering visitors a wide range of attractions and activities. From hiking and biking to exploring local wineries and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone to enjoy. With this guide, you are now equipped with all the information you need to plan a memorable trip to Lake County, California.



    Lakeport
    Middletown