Clear Lake is the kind of place that makes a road trip feel like an adventure from the very first mile.
You’ll drive past one of California’s oldest lakes, climb the slopes of a massive ancient volcano, and stumble across some seriously unexpected roadside surprises.
Along the way, you will find small towns with historic streets, scenic vineyards spread across mountain valleys, and local spots packed with personality.
If you’re looking for a Northern California road trip that mixes nature, quirky stops, and beautiful lake views, this Clear Lake itinerary is about to show you where to go.
1. Clear Lake State Park
Clear Lake State Park sits on the southwest shore of Clear Lake near the town of Kelseyville in Lake County.
This 590-acre park overlooks the 43,785-acre Clear Lake, which scientists estimate is at least 480,000 years old, making it one of the oldest lakes in North America.
Here, you can launch a boat from the park’s ramp to fish for largemouth bass, crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish, or relax at one of the 146 campsites.
For a quick adventure on land, walk the Dorn Nature Trail, an easy 1.8-mile loop through the woods that leads to scenic shoreline viewpoints.
2. Kelseyville
Next is the small town of Kelseyville, which offers a classic Clear Lake stop with historic buildings, local wineries, and front-row views of Mount Konocti.
Set in Big Valley, it has a compact Main Street packed with local eats like the popular Saw Shop Gallery Bistro, known for its delicious burgers.
Wine lovers can stop by Rosa d’Oro Vineyards Winery or Boatique Winery, both set among rolling vineyards that thrive in Lake County’s warm, sunny climate.
And if you visit in late September, catch the Kelseyville Pear Festival, a lively event with live music, street vendors, scarecrow contests, and a parade.
3. Mount Konocti County Park
Just 15 minutes from Kelseyville, Mount Konocti County Park lets you hike up the slopes of the massive dormant volcano overlooking Clear Lake.
Covering over 1,500 acres, the park features the Wright Peak Summit Trail, a steep 7.5-mile out-and-back hike that climbs about 1,649 feet to a 4,299-foot summit.
From the top, you get sweeping views of the entire Clear Lake basin, with towns like Lakeport and Clearlake dotting the shoreline far below.
It’s the kind of place that turns a tough hike into a memorable highlight of the trip.
4. Anderson Marsh State Historic Park
Just down the road in Lower Lake, Anderson Marsh State Historic Park protects over 1,000 acres of wetlands, oak woodlands, and open grasslands.
The park is also home to dozens of ancient archaeological sites linked to the Southeastern Pomo people, some dating back more than 10,000 years.
If you want to explore the area, you can stretch your legs on the Cache Creek Trail, an easy 2.1-mile loop known for birdwatching.
Bring your binoculars because about 151 bird species have been recorded here, including hawks, great blue herons, and warblers gliding over the water.
5. Brassfield Estate Winery
About 20 minutes from Anderson Marsh State Historic Park, Brassfield Estate Winery sits on a beautiful 5,000-acre ranch in Lake County’s High Valley AVA.
It produces estate-grown wines from vineyards planted at 1,800 to 3,000 feet, helping grapes like Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and Sauvignon Blanc develop bold flavors.
When you visit, you can stop by the spacious tasting room to sample flights while looking out at rolling vineyards.
And if you want to explore a bit, you can join an estate hike across the property, where guides share how the winery protects wildlife and preserves the landscape.
6. Clarkes Collectibles & Lunchbox Museum
Up next is Clarkes Collectibles & Lunchbox Museum in Nice, a place that feels like stepping into a giant time capsule.
It features more than 900 vintage lunchboxes and thermoses displayed along the walls.
As you walk through the small shop, you’ll see classic designs like Barbie, Curious George, Star Wars, and other pop culture icons from the 1950s to the 1980s.
The owner, Deb Clarke, is often around to share stories about rare finds in the collection, making this nostalgic roadside museum a fun stop around Clear Lake.
7. Upper Lake
The last stop is the tiny town of Upper Lake, just 10 minutes from the museum, known for its charming historic feel.
Its Main Street features historic buildings like the Tallman Hotel, a beautifully restored 1890s landmark with 17 rooms, and the popular Blue Wing Saloon restaurant.
From there, you can stroll the short downtown stretch to browse spots like Gingerbread Barn or grab coffee at Double D’s Coffee.
It’s a fitting final stop where you can settle in for a relaxed meal or drink before wrapping up the day around Clear Lake.
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