Goodbye Lake Tahoe, So Long Big Bear: Visit This Sierra Nevada Gem For Scenic Camping, Fishing, And Lake Fun

Without question, northern California's Lake Tahoe and southern California's Big Bear Lake are known as ultimate mountain lake getaways, attracting large crowds and a flurry of activity. However, there are alternatives for those seeking waterfront experiences within the Golden State. One of those is Camp Far West Lake, which lies within the Sierra Nevada region and offers visitors picturesque camping, lake activities, and fishing.

Also known as Camp Far West Reservoir, this over 2,000-acre reservoir is located at 280 feet elevation outside of Wheatland, in Yuba County, where it joins Placer and Nevada counties. Completed in 1963, the man-made reservoir was created as part of the Central Valley Water Project. The 185-foot-high dam stands at the confluence of the Bear River and Rock Creek. Managed by the South Sutter Water District, it can hold over 100,000 acre-feet of water when at full capacity and helps support agricultural irrigation in the area. The lake's name came from a nearby Gold Rush-era immigrant camp and its position as the last one before continuing west on the trail.

Like its Lake Tahoe counterpart, around 94 miles away, Camp Far West has both a north and south shore for exploration, but where it differs is by providing an alternative experience without the crowds or attention that Tahoe draws. In total, it offers 29 miles of shoreline for lakegoers to explore and for fishermen to cast a line from. It's become an outdoor haven for water recreation, along with offering a picturesque campground for extended overnight adventures. 

You can experience lake fun at Camp Far West Lake with water recreation in many forms, including swimming, kayaking, boating, wakeboarding, and jet skiing. The lake's speed limit within 200 feet of shore is 5 mph for the safety of slower-speed activities. There are no rentals on site, so bring your own or rent from a local provider such as NorCal Extreme Rentals, which offers delivery. There are day-use rate fees, depending on transportation mode, and add-ons for pets, horses, jet skis, or boats. A full schedule of fees can be found on the Camp Far West Lake website. The lake's north shore is open year-round. The south shore is near Lincoln — which has a vibrant downtown, craft breweries, and tasty local eats – and is available for use from mid-May to September. 

Anglers looking to cast a line will find a variety of fish: largemouth, smallmouth, and striped bass species, catfish, crappie, and brown trout available for catch on the waterway or via the shore. The eastern coves are known to be quieter and away from the main boat activity for fishing, with recommendations to arrive early before the noisier watercraft arrive. All anglers 16 and older are required to obtain a valid California fishing license and will need to check current catch limits and other regulations prior to visiting. The lake and the Bear River are known for higher-than-average mercury levels, so be sure to follow guidelines set forth by California's Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment regarding consumption of fish from these waters. 

There are 137 campsites available at Camp Far West Lake, with options on both the north and south shores, which differ in seasonal availability and amenities. The primary option is the year-round north shore featuring 70 campsites, including eight full hook-up RV sites, a boat ramp and dock, day-use areas, a camp store, restrooms (but no showers), and a dump station. The lake's south shore features 67 sites designed primarily for tents and smaller vehicles, with restrooms available. Per the camp staff, during the season, they operate only on select weekends, while at other times they are available only for private events and group reservations. Sites can be booked by phone or inside the camp store on Mondays and Tuesdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., and a site map is available online. Camping fees also vary depending on occupants, additional equipment, or hookups; rates are also available on the website.

Reviewers have mixed opinions about camping here, with many recommending bringing your own pop-ups due to lack of shade and extra lighting for dark restroom walks, and cautioning about muddy and overgrown areas. Opinions of the restrooms are also varied, with some praising their cleanliness while others mention avoiding them. On the positive side, it avoids many of the common complaints about Lake Tahoe, making it a great Golden State alternative. Former campers like the dog friendliness, scenic surroundings, and enjoying the water when the lake levels are optimal. If you prefer traditional accommodations, the town of Wheatland — home to Bishop's Pumpkin Farm, one of the best pumpkin patches in America, according to online reviews — is about 10 miles away from the north shore.