Roughly thirty minutes north of the infamous Napa wine region in northern California lies Clear Lake, California’s largest natural freshwater lake fully in the confines of the state borders.
Clear Lake State Park is located on its southern shore, with access to the lake for multiple water-based recreational activities, a few miles of hiking trails within the State Park, and camping options for tent, RV, and hikers and bikers, and even (non-electric) cabin camping is available.
I visited in October, with fall already in full swing in the region and crisp nighttime temperatures. I was hoping for an excursion on the lake with my foldable kayak, but the variable weather turned rainy and misty on said Saturday. Instead, I opted to explore the hiking trails in Mt Konocti County Park.
Kelsey Creek Campground
During the off season, Kelsey Creek Campground is the only open campground at the state park. My reservation was for site 84, which is on the leftmost of the four loops. It opens up towards the lake, but does not have direct lake access. Sites 58-60 are premium campsites with direct access to the lake via a small beach (campground map).
Reservations can be made via ReserveCalifornia.
Supplies
Firewood can be purchased from the camp host located at the entrance to Kelsey Creek Campground.
Hiking routes by AllTrails
Other
- Clear Lake State Park (ca.gov)
- Clear Lake State Park (Lake County Tourism Improvement District)