Re: Lake Shasta- Best Beaches & Coves
Been to Shasta many times and is my favorite lake. The problem with asking about a favorite cove or beach is that the shoreline of the lake changes drastically with the level of the water. Coves and beaches come and go not only from year to year but from month to month and even week to week. As the water lowers, islands, shallow land bridges, and beaches appear. Areas that were once coves become inaccessible by boat. You see the lake is a fresh water reservoir that provides water to the cities and farmers south of it and through the summer the lake keeps going lower. Even at its lowest level though it is still a huge lake. It is fed by 3 rivers that form 3 arms, the Sacramento, McCloud, and O'brien I think . Never can remember the name of that last one. I like that it is a little different every time I go there and always new to explore. Also, like that during the day in the Summer, I can chose to swim in either spa temp water by going up the Sacramento arm or the cool water in the huge main lake area near the dam. Takes about 3 days to fully explore the lake. There are multiple marinas with gas, rentals, gift shops, and places to eat around the lake, although a few become inaccessible later in the summer. Bridge Bay is about the biggest and I highly recommend a stop there. Sugar Bear is another. Our favorite trip we stayed in the Sugar Bear cabins that include a free boat slip. Sure enjoyed being able to leave the boat in the water the whole week. Even if your not staying there they will for a fee, store your boat trailer for you. All the marinas also rent slips of course.
Well, enjoy your trip. I only wish I could afford to go this year. May find a way to get there for a weekend I hope. Need to christen my 'new to me' and newly restored boat on the lake. It's a tradition. Restore just won't be complete without some of Lake Shasta's red mud on my trailer tires and on the boat.
-- Jeff
PS. Don't forget to carry a spare prop with you. I did mention the water level changes things even during a week's stay didn't I? If renting, be sure to get prop insurance.
