Water Activities

Whether a tiny trickle of a creek, enough to cool your toes, or the vast expanses of beaches, water provides an exciting element to outdoor recreation. Even the most seasoned of water enthusiasts can be surprised by changing water conditions. Enjoy your day, but remember these tips.

Boating - Motorized

The many lakes and reservoirs on the Modoc National Forest provide recreational opportunities for boating enthusiasts. All boaters on lakes in the National Forest shall observe and comply with all boating laws and regulations issued and enforced by the California Department of Boating and Waterways.

Boating - Non-Motorized

All boaters on lakes in the National Forest shall observe and comply with all boating laws and regulations issued and enforced by the California Department of Boating and Waterways.

Swimming

Swimming and splashing in cool mountain lakes and streams is great vacation fun but, there are some things to keep in mind: 

• Lakes have very little shallow water.  There is usually an abrupt drop off into deep, cold water just a few feet from shore.
• Streams can have deep holes today in places where shallow water was yesterday.
• Flowing water on the forest is mostly melted snow and spring water from underground.  Temperature and flow change all the time.  Stream beds can be very slippery and in combination with swift flowing water, can knock small children and adults off their feet.
• Rocks underwater can look exactly like the bottom.  Never dive head first into lakes or streams.

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Recreation Opportunities

Boating - Motorized (11)

Boating - Non-Motorized (13)

Swimming (1)

Waterskiing (1)

Showing: 1 - 10 of 16 results

Big Sage Boating Site

Site Open

Big Sage Reservoir and campground are surrounded by juniper woodland and sagebrush. The reservoir is several thousand acres and the campground lies on the shore near the boat ramp.

Blue Lake Boating Site

Site Open

Blue Lake, located in the southern Warner Mountains, is a favorite for local anglers and is stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.  A boat dock is available in summer…

Cave Lake Boating Site

Site Open

There is a gravel boat ramp and parking area on the south side of the lake as well as a bathroom facility. Non-motorized boats only. The road into this area is extremely rough, 4-wheel drive is…

Cedar Creek Upper Trailhead

Site Open

Located adjacent to our ski area, this trail offers both hikers, mountain bikers and equestrian units a downhill run of some 3 plus miles that ends at the Cedar Creek Lower Trailhead.  Easy access…

Duncan North Boating Site

Site Open

This is a primitive area without facilities.  The boat ramp is gravel and dirt.  There is a small parking lot and turn around.  This area is recommended for cartop boats and small power boats.

Duncan South Boating Site

Site Open

This is a primitive area without facilities.  The boat ramp is gravel and dirt.  There is parking for boat trailers and room for turn around.  Small motor boats and car top boats can launch from…

Green Springs Boating Site

Site Open

Easily accessed from Davis Creek, this very large reservoir sits among tall pines and juniper.  A very nice boat ramp allows entry to the lake but no other facilities are available.

Jane's Reservoir Boating Site

Site Open

A gravel launch ramp provides access for small boats to this lovely little reservoir.  There is a campground adjacent.

Lily Lake Boating Site

Site Open

Lily Lake is a picturesque mountain lake ideal for kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddle boards. No boat motors of any kind are allowed on Lily Lake. This is a "day use" only facility. No overnight…

Logan Slough Boating Site

Site Temporarily Closed

Volcanic cliffs define a portion of the shoreline at Logan Slough.  While motors are allowed, car top boats or non-motorized boats are most appropriate for this small body of water.