Top 19 Lakes in Sacramento County
Best lakes in Sacramento County offer diverse recreational opportunities and natural landscapes. Located in California's Central Valley, the county features significant waterways like the American River and Sacramento River, contributing to its rich natural environment. The region is characterized by its flat plains and proximity to the Sierra Nevada foothills, providing a mix of urban and natural settings. These lakes serve as important hubs for outdoor activities and local ecosystems.
Best lakes in Sacramento County
- The most popular lakes is Lake Natoma, a lake that is a freshwater reservoir created by the Nimbus Dam. This lake is known for its calm waters, making it suitable for non-motorized water sports like kayaking and rowing.
- Another must-see spot is Folsom Lake, a large reservoir at the base of the Sierra foothills. It offers a variety of activities including hiking, camping, boating, and water-skiing across its extensive area.
- Visitors also love Sacramento State Aquatic Center, a facilities located on Lake Natoma. It provides classes and equipment rentals for various watersports, making it a central point for water adventures.
- Sacramento County is known for large reservoirs, calmer lakes for non-motorized activities, and clear-water lakes. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, catering to different outdoor interests.
- The lakes in Sacramento County are appreciated by the komoot community, with 33 upvotes and 4 photos shared.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Sacramento State Aquatic Center
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Lake Natoma
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Nimbus Dam
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Folsom Lake
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William Land Park
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Adventure Play Area
Amphitheater
Attractions:
Fairytale Town
Funderland
Sacramento Zoo
Basketball Court
Golf Course
Jogging Path
Lakes
Picnic Areas (Large and Small)
Restrooms
Rock Garden
Off-street Parking
Softball Field - 6
Soccer Fields -3
Village Green
cityofsacramento.org/ParksandRec/Parks/Park-Directory/Land-Park/William-Land
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Folsom State Recreational Area Forest
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Cosumnes River Preserve
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McKinley Park
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Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge
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Camden Park Trail
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Tips from the Community
Very beautiful. Especially in the morning you can watch the sunset reflect on the lake and mist rising out if it. Its pretty magical. Except if you running the whole route...keep in mind, all bathrooms are somehow "closed for season"😭 but overall 5 stars
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Lake Natoma is a freshwater reservoir created by the Nimbus Dam. This is a particularly good spot to stop and catch a good photo opportunity with the clear waters of the lake behind you.
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Folsom State Recreational Area Forest is a state park that surround Folsom Lake. It is a popular spot for water sport, biking, and hiking. It is at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and has amazing views of the mountains.
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Folsom State Recreational Area Forest is a state park that surround Folsom Lake. It is a popular spot for water sport, biking, and hiking. It is at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and has amazing views of the mountains.
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This stunning preserve is one of the few protected wetland habitat areas in the state and home to California's largest remaining valley oak riparian forest. There is a beautiful bird refuge, where millions of birds stop on their annual migration, a nice visitor center, and pit toilets in the parking lot. Entry is free, and there are several paved pathways and walking bridges, benches, and a lookout point in the water-filled grasslands. It's a fantastic place to stop and take a break to enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
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Folsom Lake is at the base of the beautiful Sierra foothills. The lake offers a variety of activities from hiking and camping to boating and water-skiing. Please note, there's not much shade on most of the trails around the lake, so come prepared with lots of water and sunscreen.
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Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge is a former vineyard transformed into an area of grasslands, wetlands and woodlands. The area is open to the public to explore its natural surroundings and there are a network of fantastic walking trails to discover. There's plenty of amazing wildlife here including blue herons, dragonflies and otters.
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If you're up for a day of fun on Lake Natoma, check out this aquatic center. They offer classes and equipment rentals for various watersports like sailing, rowing, paddling, windsurfing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, and boating. It's the perfect spot for a water adventure!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes in Sacramento County for non-motorized water sports?
For non-motorized water sports like kayaking, rowing, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding, Lake Natoma is an excellent choice. It has a 5 mph speed limit for motorized boats, ensuring calm waters. The Sacramento State Aquatic Center, located on Lake Natoma, offers rentals and classes for various water activities. Jenkinson Lake, though slightly outside Sacramento County, is also highly regarded for its clear waters and paddle sports.
Which lakes in Sacramento County are suitable for families?
Many lakes in Sacramento County are family-friendly. Lake Natoma is ideal for peaceful family outings with its calm waters and surrounding trails. Folsom Lake offers numerous day-use areas like Granite Bay and Beal's Point with swim beaches, picnic areas, and camping. Jenkinson Lake (Sly Park Recreation Area) is also a great family destination with clear waters for swimming and extensive camping facilities.
Are there good hiking and biking trails around the lakes in Sacramento County?
Yes, the lakes in Sacramento County offer extensive trail systems. Folsom Lake State Recreation Area boasts over 95 miles of hiking and bicycle trails. Lake Natoma features 11 miles of paved bicycle trails and 6 miles of multi-use trails, including access to the Jedediah Smith Memorial Trail. The American River Bike Trail offers great views over Lake Natoma and is popular for cycling. For more detailed routes, explore the Cycling in Sacramento County guide.
Which lakes are best for swimming and boating in Sacramento County?
Folsom Lake is excellent for swimming, boating, jet skiing, and water-skiing due to its large expanse and numerous facilities. Jenkinson Lake (Sly Park Recreation Area) is also known for its remarkably clear waters, making it very inviting for swimming and various paddle sports.
Can I go camping near the lakes in Sacramento County?
Yes, camping is available near some of the lakes. Folsom Lake offers various camping spots, including Beal's Point. Jenkinson Lake (Sly Park Recreation Area) provides over 190 campsites, making it a popular destination for overnight stays.
What kind of wildlife can I spot around Sacramento County lakes?
The lakes and surrounding areas are home to diverse wildlife. Around Lake Natoma and the American River Bike Trail, you may spot various birds and other animals in the riparian ecosystems. The Cosumnes River Preserve and Stone Lakes National Wildlife Refuge are dedicated to wildlife viewing and conservation, offering opportunities to see migratory birds and other local species.
Are there dog-friendly trails around the lakes?
Yes, the American River Bike Trail, which offers great views over Lake Natoma, is dog-friendly, though dogs should be leashed. Many other trails within the Folsom Lake State Recreation Area also permit dogs, but always check specific park regulations for leash requirements and restricted areas.
What are the best times to visit the lakes in Sacramento County?
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and biking. Summer is ideal for water activities like swimming and boating, though trails around Folsom Lake can be exposed with little shade, so bring plenty of water and sunscreen. Winter can be a peaceful time for walks, with some lakes remaining open for recreational use.
Are there any historical sites near the lakes?
Yes, near Folsom Lake, you can explore the historic Folsom Powerhouse, which once supplied electricity to Sacramento. The area around Folsom also has a rich history tied to the Gold Rush era.
Where can I rent equipment for water sports on the lakes?
The Sacramento State Aquatic Center on Lake Natoma is a primary hub for equipment rentals and classes for various water sports, including sailing, rowing, paddling, and more.
Are there any easy hiking options around the lakes?
Yes, there are many easy hiking options. The paved trails around Lake Natoma are generally flat and suitable for easy walks. Many sections of the American River Bike Trail also offer easy, scenic routes. For specific easy routes, you can check the MTB Trails in Sacramento County guide, which includes some easy-rated trails like the 'Bridge & River Viewpoint – Folsom Historic Truss Bridge loop'.
What are the options for mountain biking near Sacramento County lakes?
Sacramento County offers several mountain biking opportunities near its lakes. Trails around Folsom Lake are popular, with routes like 'Views of Folsom Lake – Granite Bay loop' providing moderate challenges. The American River Bike Trail also has sections suitable for mountain biking. For more routes and difficulty levels, refer to the MTB Trails in Sacramento County guide.
Are there any lakes with clear water for swimming or kayaking?
Jenkinson Lake, part of Sly Park Recreation Area, is particularly noted for its remarkably clear waters, making it a favorite for swimming, canoeing, and kayaking. While located just outside Sacramento County, it's a popular and accessible option for those seeking pristine water conditions.
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