About Whiskey Creek Group Picnic Area (Whiskeytown NRA)
Overview Whiskey Creek Group Picnic Area is located on the northern shore of Whiskeytown Lake in Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, 13 miles west of Redding, California. The Group Picnic Area is a popular spot to celebrate birthdays, family reunions, work events and many other special occasions with a day of waterside fun. This is a day use area only. The hours are 9 am to 9 pm for reservation holders. Alcohol, smoking, and pets are prohibited. Recreation During the summer heat, swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding and fishing are popular activities in the Whiskey Creek arm of the lake. Boats may be launched at nearby Whiskey Creek Launch Ramp and moored along the shore of the Group Picnic Area. Facilities The Group Picnic Area contains one large site and two small sites with dirt surfaces, each with two large serving tables, numerous picnic tables and a large charcoal barbecue grill. We recommend that you bring your own portable shade structures as there are no permanent ones at the site. These sites do not provide electric or water hookups. Two vault toilets service all sites. Natural Features Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is situated where the Klamath Mountains, Cascade and Coast Mountain Ranges and the Sacramento Valley meet, creating a wide variety of wildlife and landscapes. The Group Picnic Area features a protected cove for swimmers. Nearby Attractions The Whiskey Creek Launch Ramp is located 1.6 miles from the Group Picnic Area. Boats may be launched from there and moored at the Group Picnic Area. Boats are available for rent at Oak Bottom Marina, located 5.5 miles from the Group Picnic Area. Call (530) 359-2671.
How to Get There
From Redding, CA, take State Route 299 west for approximately 11 miles. Turn onto Whiskey Creek Road and drive past the Whiskey Creek launch area. At the fork in the road, turn right and follow paved road approximately 1.6 miles until it ends at the group picnic area.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Whiskey Creek Group Picnic Area (Whiskeytown NRA)
Heading to Whiskey Creek Group Picnic Area (Whiskeytown NRA)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Whiskey Creek Group Picnic Area (Whiskeytown NRA)?
No central reservation system listed for Whiskey Creek Group Picnic Area (Whiskeytown NRA). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232454) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Whiskey Creek Group Picnic Area (Whiskeytown NRA)?
From Redding, CA, take State Route 299 west for approximately 11 miles. Turn onto Whiskey Creek Road and drive past the Whiskey Creek launch area. At the fork in the road, turn right and follow paved road approximately 1.6 miles until it ends at the group picnic area.
How do I contact Whiskey Creek Group Picnic Area (Whiskeytown NRA)?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-242-3412 or email: tricia_ford@nps.gov.
References & Official Resources
