About Clear Lake

What’s Unique About Us? And Why Would You Want to Visit?

We have what is geologists believe is the oldest lake in North America. Our lake is estimated to be from one to two million years old. It’s a natural lake, the basin being created by Mother Nature via the stresses of the San Andreas Fault system and the eruption of our Clear Lake Volcanoes.

Being on a giant, ancient lake we of course have fishing and water sports and all sorts of activities that go with being on a lake surrounded by mountains, volcanoes, other smaller lakes and streams. Be sure and ask about Blue Lakes and all it has to offer. Clear Lake has 100 miles of shoreline. We’ve been called the “Bass Capital of the World”. Want to know who offers a guide service or what’s the best lure to use for catching bass or crappie right now?

We’re off the beaten path, maybe a little undiscovered.

We have wineries and vineyards. They’re still a best kept secret. We have over 30 wineries and 9,000 plus acres of vineyards. Our volcanic soil and high elevations result in premium grapes that our winemakers craft into award winning wines. It’s likely that a stop for a wine tasing will result in conversation with the winery owners and vintners. It’s bound to include good conversation, beautiful views, and knowledgeable hosts.

Do you like shopping for one of a kind items? Or locally made candles, honey and foods? You’ll find hand crafted items at boutiques and small stores at the communities located all around the lake, as well as at our Farmers Markets.

Interested in locally grown produce? Our countryside is dotted with farms and vineyards. Visit our local farmers. Many have farm stands as well as being present at our Farmers Markets. We have a saffron farm in Lake County! You can visit and meet the owners and enjoy a Farm to Table meal.

Like to bird watch? Or hike, or photograph? We’re known for our multitude of birds and wildlife. We have State, County and City Parks and recreational areas. We even have petroglyphs at Anderson Marsh State Historic Park.

Do you see stars where you are? Lake County is a great place for stargazing. We have some of the cleanest air in the country. You can star watch from anywhere or you can arrange to visit the Taylor Observatory in Kelseyville for giant telescope views of the skies.

Is biking or hiking or riding your horse on trails your passion? We’ve got hiking and bicycling trails. Head up to Cobb Mountain for a visit to the Boggs Mountain Demonstration State Forest for mountain biking, established in 1949 covering 3,433 acres. You might visit a local winery known for its bicycle trails. Try our new equestrian center, The Highlands Springs Equestrian Center in Kelseyville.

When was the last time you visited a County Fair? The Lake County Fair is held in September on Labor Day Weekend. From exhibits to live music and entertainment, to a carnival, food vendors, contests, petting zoo, livestock area and a demolition derby; four days of fun.

Maybe you’re interested in Golf Courses, or Festivals and Concerts, or museums. Or do you like to Glamp or Camp; we have options. There are concerts and festivals. Check our calendar for the many events held throughout the county for major holidays or just because. Most of our communities and two cities offer events unique to them.

Unique and conventional lodging accommodations. All around the lake, from the mountain tops to views of the lake to on the lake, take your pick; we have choices.

Mouthwatering options for dining, from gourmet restaurants to, farm to table dining, food trucks and comfort food.

In Lake County you have the option of lake activities, winery and farm adventures, hiking, biking, exploring the different dining choices or simply relaxing and enjoying beautiful sunrises, sunsets and stargazing in our incredibly clean air.

In addition to our Website and Facebook page and the links available here, the Clear Lake Chamber of Commerce is manned by a group of local, knowledgeable, volunteers. Tell them what you’re interested in and they’ll provide you with ideas and suggestions created just for you.

We’re Unique. Visit us.