20 Family- Friendly Things to do in the North State…
From the majestic peaks of Mount Shasta to the pristine waters of Lake Shasta and the rugged wilderness of the Trinity Alps, this region offers a playground for families seeking both excitement and relaxation amidst nature’s splendor.
Here are 20 delightful activities that promise to ignite the spirit of adventure and create cherished memories for you and your loved ones. Whether you’re exploring ancient caverns, attending lively fairs or embarking on scenic hikes, there’s something for every member of the family to enjoy in this enchanting corner of California. So pack your sense of wonder, embrace the beauty of the outdoors and discover the countless treasures waiting to be explored in the North State.
1 Explore Lassen Volcanic National Park: Discover the wonders of this volcanic wonderland, including hiking trails, boiling mud pots, and breathtaking vistas.
2 Fish at Lake Shasta: Spend a day on the water fishing for bass, trout and salmon at Lake Shasta, a popular spot for anglers of all ages.
3 Take a boat tour of Shasta Caverns: Embark on an underground adventure with a boat tour of Shasta Caverns, where you can explore magnificent limestone formations and learn about the region’s geological history.
4 Camp in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest: Pitch a tent or rent a cabin in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest for a memorable camping trip surrounded by towering trees and pristine wilderness.
5 Attend the Shasta County Fair in June and the Siskiyou Golden Fair in August: Enjoy carnival rides, live entertainment and delicious fair food at the annual Shasta County Fair and Siskiyou Golden Fair, a summertime tradition..
6 Ride a horse: Explore the scenic beauty of the North State on horseback, with guided trail rides suitable for riders of all experience levels.
7 Visit the Lake Siskiyou Resort: Cool off with a swim in Lake Siskiyou or rent a paddleboard or kayak for a day of fun on the water at this family-friendly resort.
8 Hike in the Trinity Alps: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the rugged beauty of the Trinity Alps Wilderness, home to stunning mountain vistas, alpine lakes and meadows.
9 Go whitewater rafting on the Klamath River: Experience the thrill of whitewater rafting on the Klamath River, with guided trips available for people of all skill levels.
10 Ride a horse: Explore the scenic beauty of the North State on horseback, with guided trail rides suitable for riders of all experience levels.
11 Explore Castle Crags State Park: Hike among towering granite spires and old-growth forests at Castle Crags State Park, where you can enjoy stunning views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding wilderness.
12 Go birdwatching at the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge: Spot a variety of bird species, including waterfowl, raptors and migratory birds, at the Sacramento National Wildlife Refuge Complex, a haven for bird watchers of all ages.
13 Take a scenic drive on Highway 96: Enjoy breathtaking views of the Klamath River and surrounding mountains as you drive along Highway 96, a designated scenic byway winding through Siskiyou County.
14 Mountain bike in Whiskeytown National Recreation Area: Hit the trails on two wheels and explore the scenic beauty of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, with trails suitable for riders of all skill levels.
15 Visit the Turtle Bay Exploration Park: Explore interactive exhibits, botanical gardens, and wildlife exhibits at the Turtle Bay Exploration Park in Redding, offering educational fun for the whole family.
16 Attend the Lumberjack Fiesta in McCloud: Three days of competitions ensue with a variety of events such as horseshoes, logging, watermelon eating, and dancing.
17 Stargaze at Lava Beds National Monument: Experience the wonder of the night sky at Lava Beds National Monument, where you can marvel at the stars and learn about astronomy with your family.
18 Cool off at Waterworks Park: Spend a fun-filled day at this water park featuring slides, lazy rivers, and splash pads, perfect for beating the heat with your kids.
19 Pick fruit at a local orchard: Take your kids fruit picking at one of the many orchards in the North State, where you can pick fresh berries, peaches, or apples, depending on the season, for a delicious and healthy treat.
20 Enjoy a variety of activities at Oasis Fun Center: Enjoy miniature golf, go carts, laser tag, laser maze, an arcade, axe throwing and bumper boats, providing hours of entertainment for kids of all ages.
