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WATER SPORTS GUIDE: LEWISTON, CA

Kayaking, SUP, boating & more — starting from Flux River Resort

Flux River Resort – River Paddling

* Please call ahead! Many businesses are seasonal - hours and activities can change. *

Distance: On-site
The calm edges of the Trinity River near camp are suitable for experienced paddlers. Drift slowly at sunrise, watch wildlife, and enjoy the cool air along the water.

Best for:

  • Short paddles

  • Experienced kayakers

  • Morning wildlife viewing

Lewiston Lake

Distance: 5–6 miles
Perfect For: Kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, electric-powered boats

Lewiston Lake is calm, narrow, and protected from strong winds thanks to tall trees and canyon walls. It’s one of the best paddle spots in the region.

Why it’s a favorite:

  • Clear, glassy water

  • Frequent trout sightings

  • Easy shoreline access points

  • Quiet 10 mph speed limit

Ideal times:

  • Sunrise for the calmest water

  • Late afternoon glow for photos

Trinity Lake

Distance: 20–25 miles
Perfect For: Speedboats, tubing, water skiing, wakeboarding, jet skis, SUPs

This expansive alpine reservoir offers warm summer water and room to spread out. Families love it for full-day boating adventures.

Highlights:

  • Dozens of coves for swimming and floating

  • Marina rentals available

  • Picnic-friendly shoreline pockets

Best season: Late spring through early fall.

Clear Creek (Redding side day trip)

Distance: ~40 miles (1 hour)
Perfect For: Kayaking, SUPs, cool shallow water wading

A fun, shallow creek with turquoise water and cold swimming holes. Best in late spring and early summer.

Tips:

  • Creek levels vary—avoid high water

  • Great for kids in calm stretches

  • Shoes recommended (rocky bottom)

Swimming Spots Guide: Lewiston, CA

The best places to cool off, float, and relax

1. Lewiston Lake – Day Use Areas

Distance: 5–6 miles
Best For: Quiet swimming, floating, SUPs

Lewiston Lake stays cooler year-round, but shallow coves warm up nicely in summer. Perfect for a peaceful swim.

Perks:

  • Clear water

  • Easy parking

  • Shade in most coves

  • Great for paddleboard + swim combos

2. Trinity Lake – Family Coves

Distance: 20–25 miles
Best For: Warm swimming, groups, boat-access beaches

Trinity Lake is the most swim-friendly lake near Lewiston. Its large coves warm throughout summer, and families love the long afternoons here.

Great for:

  • Floating islands

  • Inflatable loungers

  • All-day relaxation

Tip:
If you’re boating, aim for the quieter northern coves for turquoise, super-clear water.

3. Trinity River (Gentle Edges Only)

Distance: On-site at Flux River Resort
Best For: Quick dips, wading, cooling off

The Trinity River stays cold year-round. You won’t swim laps here, but there are calm shallows along the riverbank perfect for dipping your feet or cooling off on hot days.

Safety notes:

  • Do not enter fast or deep sections

  • Wear water shoes

  • Keep children within arm’s reach

4. Crystal Creek Falls (Whiskeytown National Recreation Area)

Distance: ~45 miles (about 1 hour)
Best For: Scenic waterfall swimming

A short, flat trail leads to a beautiful waterfall-fed pool. It’s one of the easiest and most photogenic swimming spots near Lewiston.

What to expect:

  • Cold water even in summer

  • Smooth rock seating

  • Light crowds on weekdays

5. Whiskeytown Lake Beaches

Distance: ~50 miles (1 hour 10 minutes)
Best For: Sandy beaches, warm water, family swimming

Oak Bottom and Brandy Creek Day Use areas offer soft shoreline, bathrooms, picnic tables, and warm summer water.

Best time to go:
July–September

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