California lakes are as big and beautiful as everything else in the Golden State. Mono Lake is wild and pristine, Mammoth Lakes are as gorgeous as the are numerous, and the incomparable Lake Tahoe is quite simply one of the best vacation destinations west of the Mississippi.


Lake Tahoe: This gorgeous resort on the California/Nevada border has something to offer all year round.

Mammoth Lakes: The area around Mammoth Lakes includes great resorts, beautiful wild places and world-class parks.

Mono Lake: Wildlife observation, hiking and cross-country skiing are all popular activities near this salty lake.

Shasta Lake: This 4-armed giant is a prime recreational lake with 14 boat-tamps, 12 campgrounds, 12 marinas and 400 houseboat rentals.