Whiskeytown National Recreational Area - Ranger Guided Activities (U.S. National Park Service)

Unless otherwise noted, the ranger guided activities described below are offered during the summer months only at Whiskeytown. All Ranger Guided activity schedules and programs are subject to change. For current information and updates about activities please contact the Visitor Center at (530) 246-1225.

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Kayakers on Ranger Guided Tour.

Kayak Tours
Hop on a kayak built for two and explore the quiet coves around Whiskeytown Lake while you learn more about the natural and cultural values of the park. Children must be at least six years old. All participants must know how to swim. Daily tours available. Times vary from morning tours to evening tours. Reservations are required. During the summer months register in advance by calling 530.242.3462, Monday through Saturday, 9 am to noon. The reservation line is staffed by volunteers and is often busy, please be patient and continue to call. Click here for more information on kayak tour registration requirements.

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Junior Ranger Program.

Junior Ranger
Kids ages 7 to 12 years old can become Whiskeytown Junior Rangers by learning about the special wonders of Whiskeytown. Download a Junior Ranger card before you come to Whiskeytown or stop by the visitor center to pick one up and ask how you can become a Whiskeytown Junior Ranger. During the summer, Rangers conduct special Junior Ranger programs at the Oak Bottom Amphitheater.

Junior Firefighters learning about Whiskeytown's fire engine.

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Junior Firefighters learn what it takes to operate a fire engine.

Junior Firefighter
Discover the role that wildfire plays in our National Parks. Learn how firefighters manage fire to protect property, lives and ensure forest health. Participants meet at the Oak Bottom Amphitheater.

Visitors on a tour of the historic home of Charles Camden.

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Visitors on tour of the historic home of Charles Camden.

Camden House Tours
Tour the 1852 home of pioneer/prospector Charles Camden and learn how he and his partner Levi Tower reshaped the landscape during the California Gold Rush. Discover how the area became a regional center of transportation and the efforts by the National Park Service to revitalize the historic orchard started by Levi Tower. Visitors meet across the footbridge at the Tower House Historic District.

Visitors trying their luck at goldpanning.

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Visitors try their luck at goldpanning.

Gold Panning
Discover the myths and realities of the Gold Rush Days, then try your luck at finding your own gold the old fashioned way. Pans and shovels are provided. Meet across the footbridge at the Tower House Historic District.