When it comes to naming “the oldest,” or “the biggest,” or “the best” of something, you can find plenty of things that fit the bill in The Golden State. When it comes to spectacular bodies of water, it is here that you’ll find Clear Lake – the largest natural freshwater lake in California. Come along as we explore this historic and geological marvel that has been a part of the landscape here since almost the beginning of time.
Clear Lake is located in Lake County, CA about 2-1/2 hours north of San Francisco, and a little over two hours northwest of Sacramento.
buburuzaproductions/iStock/Getty Images Plus/via Getty Images Historical accounts differ somewhat as to how long it has been around. Some experts contend around a half-million years, while others estimate it to be about 2.5 million years old. However, there is a general consensus that the lake was formed as a result of volcanic activity and resulting sedimentary shifts in the landscape.
Clear Lake is hailed as the largest natural freshwater lake in California, as well as the oldest lake in North America.
Michael Overstreet/iStock/Getty Images Plus/via Getty Images Its name, thought to have been bestowed in the late 1800s by the region’s early settlers, is a combination nod to the air quality here as well as to the absence of the fog so typical of the Northern California region.
The size of Clear Lake is astounding.
jmoor17/ E+/via Getty Images It features over 100 miles of spectacular shoreline, encompasses approximately 152 square miles at its widest point, and reaches depths of 60 feet in some parts.
In part due to its longevity, the lake is home to a wide array of plant life and wildlife.
Bridge Mei/500px/500px/via Getty Images Ducks, osprey, egrets, pelicans, bald eagles, and other creatures have thrived here for years. This diversity extends to fish as well including bluegill, catfish, crappie, and carp. But Clear Lake is really known for its outstanding bass fishing. Staunch anglers from all of the country come here to land some of the biggest largemouth bass one can find.
The wealth of recreational activities here is a big draw for locals, day trippers, and long-distance vacationers.
David Brossard/Flickr In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy boating, water skiing, sailing, and wakeboarding. Swimming is popular as well, although it’s best to check with the California Department of Parks and Recreation, as there have been some areas that have experienced pollution and other water issues in recent years.
Even at nighttime, the views over the lake are spectacular!
Bakstad/iStock/Getty Images Plus/via Getty Images Since the air quality is so clear here, sites like this of the Milky Way are pretty common and a welcome respite from the distraction of the city lights so common in other parts of the state.
Whether visiting day or night, from nearby or further afield, you’ll find Clear Lake to be one of the most amazing lakes and places to visit in California.
buburuzaproductions/iStock/Getty Images Plus/via Getty Images
Historical accounts differ somewhat as to how long it has been around. Some experts contend around a half-million years, while others estimate it to be about 2.5 million years old. However, there is a general consensus that the lake was formed as a result of volcanic activity and resulting sedimentary shifts in the landscape.
Michael Overstreet/iStock/Getty Images Plus/via Getty Images
Its name, thought to have been bestowed in the late 1800s by the region’s early settlers, is a combination nod to the air quality here as well as to the absence of the fog so typical of the Northern California region.
jmoor17/ E+/via Getty Images
It features over 100 miles of spectacular shoreline, encompasses approximately 152 square miles at its widest point, and reaches depths of 60 feet in some parts.
Bridge Mei/500px/500px/via Getty Images
Ducks, osprey, egrets, pelicans, bald eagles, and other creatures have thrived here for years. This diversity extends to fish as well including bluegill, catfish, crappie, and carp. But Clear Lake is really known for its outstanding bass fishing. Staunch anglers from all of the country come here to land some of the biggest largemouth bass one can find.
David Brossard/Flickr
In addition to fishing, visitors can enjoy boating, water skiing, sailing, and wakeboarding. Swimming is popular as well, although it’s best to check with the California Department of Parks and Recreation, as there have been some areas that have experienced pollution and other water issues in recent years.
Bakstad/iStock/Getty Images Plus/via Getty Images
Since the air quality is so clear here, sites like this of the Milky Way are pretty common and a welcome respite from the distraction of the city lights so common in other parts of the state.
Have you been to Clear Lake? If so, we’d love to see your photos and hear about your experience there. You can also learn about the state park here on the official Facebook page.
If you’re looking for other amazing bodies of water in California, be sure to check out Bass Lake.
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Address: Clear Lake, California, USA
