There’s something about slipping a boat into the water and knowing that, for the next few days, your life will be ruled by the rhythm of the paddle. The silence of dawn mist, the crackle of a campfire on a gravel bar, and the echo of an osprey’s call over still water—these are the moments that make kayak and canoe camping in Northern California an experience like no other.
If you’re a paddler with a few miles under your belt, ready to trade the parking lot trailhead for a boat ramp and a backcountry campsite you can only reach by water, these four destinations offer a mix of serene beauty, rugged remoteness, and just enough challenge to feed your soul.
1. Sacramento River at Massacre Flats
Hidden in the oak-studded hills between Redding and Red Bluff, the Sacramento River winds through a lesser-known section called Massacre Flats—a place as wild as its name. This stretch is ideal for paddlers seeking solitude, wildlife, and primitive riverbank camping.
Launch near Jellys Ferry and let the current carry you into a world of herons, beavers, and ancient basalt cliffs. Gravel bars make for perfect overnight stops, with fishing, swimming, and stargazing at your fingertips. The flow here is usually mellow in summer and fall, but it’s still wise to scout rapids and watch for sweepers.
Pro tip: Bring dry bags and a good water filter. You’re a long way from services out here—but that’s exactly the point.
2. Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park
Accessible only by water, Ahjumawi Lava Springs is one of California’s true hidden gems. Located in the northeastern corner of the state near Fall River Mills, it’s a labyrinth of spring-fed rivers and lakes crisscrossed by lava flows and surrounded by forest.
Paddle across Big Lake or the Fall River to reach the park’s quiet shoreline campsites. You’ll feel like you’ve entered another world—one shaped by fire and water, where the silence is broken only by songbirds and the whisper of wind through pines.
Why it’s special: The water here is crystal clear, fed by one of the largest systems of cold-water springs in the country. It’s like paddling on liquid glass.
3. Shasta Lake – Arbuckle Flat and Beyond
While Shasta Lake is well-known, few venture beyond the houseboat crowds to explore its hidden coves and remote campsites. Paddle up the Pit Arm or McCloud Arm and you’ll find spots like Arbuckle Flat—a remote, forested peninsula that offers true boat-in camping far from the noise.
Explore waterfalls, ancient rock formations, and old mining ruins tucked into the lake’s ever-changing shoreline. The level of solitude depends on the season—spring and fall tend to be quietest.
Bonus adventure: Use your kayak to scout hard-to-reach inlets and shaded grottos where the trout are biting and the crowds are nowhere to be found.
4. Englebright Lake
Tucked into the Sierra foothills between Grass Valley and Marysville, Englebright Lake is a long, narrow reservoir that feels more like a winding river canyon. It’s a fantastic option for weekend warriors looking for a scenic escape with dramatic rock walls, oak woodlands, and plentiful boat-in campsites.
Launch at the Skippers Cove Marina and paddle upstream to find your perfect base camp. Each bend in the lake brings new scenery—and often, a hidden cove all to yourself.
Best for: Those who want to dip a paddle into multi-day camping without committing to true backcountry. You’ll still have access to restrooms and a few creature comforts while enjoying that wild water feeling.
Final Thoughts: Go Where the Road Can’t Take You
Kayak and canoe camping strips life down to the essentials: water, sky, fire, and the steady pull of your paddle. Northern California’s wild waters offer a rare chance to unplug, reset, and reconnect with something real. Whether you're watching the stars rise over Massacre Flats or gliding over lava-fed springs in Ahjumawi, each stroke takes you deeper into the adventure.
So pack your gear, leave the road behind, and follow the current. The wild is waiting.