🚤 1. Sugarloaf Public Boat Ramp Area
- Best When the Lake Is High (Spring to Early Summer)
This is one of the closest and most convenient swim spots to our homes. When the lake is full to about 60 feet down from the top, the area around the Sugarloaf Public Boat Ramp offers calm, protected water and a gently sloped shoreline — perfect for swimming, floating, paddleboarding, or enjoying a picnic.
However, once the lake drops more than 60 feet, this area transitions into the main functional boat ramp for the Sugarloaf area. At that point, it becomes much busier with vehicle and trailer traffic, making it less ideal for swimming or hanging out by the shore.
☀️ Great for families early in the season — be sure to check lake levels before heading out.
🏡 Retreats 6, 7, 12, 15, 18, and 19 are just a short walk to this area, making it one of the most convenient swimming spots for guests staying in these homes.
🌲 2. Charlie Creek Area
- Good at Nearly Any Lake Level
If you’re coming from the Sugarloaf area where many of our homes are located, Charlie Creek is just after you cross the first bridge on Lakeshore Drive heading toward the town of Lakehead. After the bridge, turn right out onto the open area that borders the lake.
Although the shoreline is best when the lake is full to about 40 feet down, this is a great option even as water levels drop. The terrain remains accessible, and it’s a popular spot for swimming, hanging out, or launching a kayak.
🏞 A versatile choice that works well throughout the season.
🏕 3. Beehive Beach Area
- Good When the Lake Is Less Than 20 Feet from the Top
From the Sugarloaf homes, head the other direction on Lakeshore Drive (away from the bridge) for about one mile, then take a left down the dirt and gravel road leading to Beehive Beach.
When the lake is within 20 feet of full, the area offers a wide, gradual shoreline that’s ideal for swimming and relaxing. Even as the lake drops further, you can still find good swimming areas by heading to the right once you reach the shoreline — gradual terrain continues to be accessible at lower levels.
🏕 This is also a designated camping area, so expect to share the space during busy weekends or holidays.
🏞 4. Gregory Creek Campground and Area
- Accessible and Swimmable Across Most Lake Levels
To get there from our homes in the Sugarloaf area, you’ll need to get back on Interstate 5 South (toward Redding) and take Exit 698 – Salt Creek/Gilman Road. After exiting, turn left onto Salt Creek Road (also known as Gregory Creek Road) and follow it north for approximately 4 miles to reach the Gregory Creek Campground and shoreline access area.
Located just north of the town of Lakehead, Gregory Creek Campground and the surrounding shoreline provide a great swimming option for both campers and day visitors. The area features a mix of flat and gently sloped terrain depending on the lake level, with various entry points along the shore. This area is good until the lake is about 60 feet below full. it is located across the lake from Antler’s Marina.
It’s also an easy drive from our homes — especially those located near the Lakehead side of the retreat.
⛺ Be aware this is a popular campground on busy weekends, so expect company during busy times.
