Boating
Fishing boats are allowed on most lakes. Check with Fish and Wildlife for special restrictions. Speedboats are allowed on the McCloud Reservoir and Lake Shastina.
Canoeing
Castle Lake is a favorite canoeing lake for locals. It is fun to paddle up to the falls area along the rocky cliff across the lake from the parking area and boat launch. At the Tulelake National Wildlife Refuge canoeing is allowed in designated areas between July 1st and Sept. 30th. The canoe trail consists of approximately 2 miles of marked, quiet water channels within a 2,500 acre hardstem bulrush and cattail marsh. Wildlife viewing opportunities area excellent, especially during the morning and evening hours.
Rafting
Mount Shasta country offers a variety of whitewater rafting experiences — from class II family float trips, to multiple day excursions, to heart pumping class IV thrill rides. Family float trips on the Klamath River provide an opportunity for parents, grandparents and children to reconnect while enjoying the natural beauty along one of Siskiyou County’s wild and scenic rivers. Just a half hour south of Mt. Shasta, spring boaters can put in on the Upper Sacramento River at Sims, where a steady stream of rapids keeps paddlers and guides busy all day.
Click here for a list of rafting guide services.
Swimming
Many lakes and rivers throughout Siskiyou County have undeveloped access for swimming. The water is icy cold and refreshing on a warm summer day. There is a developed swimming beach at Lake Siskiyou in the campground and at Lake Shastina, north of Weed.
Water-skiing
Permitted on Lake Shastina, McCloud Reservoir. These lakes are all uncrowded and picturesque, with camping and services nearby.
Windsurfing
Popular on Lake Siskiyou and Lake Shastina, best in the spring and the fall. At Lake Siskiyou, the best access is within the Lake Siskiyou Campground. Lake Shastina several miles north of Weed is a favorite spot for short-board windsurfers, who launch from the public access area.
