The water may be lower at Shasta Lake, but it's not as low as you may think. Contrary to popular belief, Shasta Lake relies primarily on rainfall to fill the lake instead of snowpack. In fact, the water level has recently risen more than 50 feet since December 1, 2015, which means the lake level is on pace to reach 90% capacity or higher by Memorial Day weekend!
As of February 1, 2016, the water level measured at 977.92 feet elevation above sea level. Full lake elevation is 1067. Even though 89 feet may seem like a lot of water that's missing, but the current water level gives you over 200 miles of shoreline to explore. That's plenty of water for houseboating and water sports. Stay updated on current conditions by clicking here: Shasta Lake Levels
Fun fact: when the lake is lower at the Pit and Squaw Creek arms of the lake, there are trees that start peeking above the water. These trees have been there since 1948; they were in the process of being cleared when the Army Corps of Engineers were called away for World War II. The trees are now a protected Bass habitat.
We may be biased, but houseboating is absolutely the best way to experience the lake. During the day, your houseboat can be used for convenient transportation in search for the next great beach to call home. By night, it's a place to kick up your feet on the top deck and soak in the last colorful rays of sun as it sets.
We have 16 different houseboat models to choose from. So which one is best for you and your group?
- The Cascade Houseboat from Bridge Bay Marina is the smallest and most basic. At only 42 feet long, the Cascade sleeps 8 with a double bunk bed and two sleeper sofas. It's a great option if you're looking to get out on the lake while keeping the cost at a minimum.
- The Odyssey Houseboat from Jones Valley Marina is a mid-size option that sleeps 15 and has a few upgraded amenities like a hot tub on the top deck, slide, and wet bar. It's perfect for larger groups or if you just want a little more space with a little luxury.
- The Queen Houseboat from Silverthorn Marina is a larger, more luxurious option, which sleeps 20. It has a wet bar that overlooks the water, and hot tub on the top deck; it also has a fireplace and satellite TV in the living area.
These are just a few houseboat options; see all models from A-Z here: Shasta Lake Houseboats
So what is there to do on Shasta Lake? Apart from sliding into the water from the houseboat, these waters are perfect for water sports like tubing, water skiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, kayaking, and even scuba diving. Fishermen especially enjoy the vast variety of species here: Rainbow and Brown Trout, Smallmouth, Largemouth or Spotted Bass, Catfish, Sturgeon, and land-locked King Salmon are common catches.
Shasta Caverns, located on the McCloud Arm of the lake, is a popular sightseeing spot to stop at during your trip. Houseboats can stake up to the shoreline or small boats can park at the courtesy dock. From there, you're guided through a forest of gravity defying helictites and stalagmites that date back 250 million years when the area was submerged.
Rest assured, Shasta Lake is far from empty. There is so much to do, no wonder Shasta Lake is one of the top houseboat vacation destinations in the United States. Be sure to reserve your vacation soon, it's booking up quickly!