Lake guide
Eagle Lake
Susanville, Lassen County, CA
Overview
Eagle Lake, north of Susanville in Lassen County, is the second-largest natural lake wholly in California. It sits at about 5,100 feet in high desert country where the Lassen National Forest meets BLM land. The lake has no surface outlet, so its size rises and falls with wet and dry years; the BLM puts it at about 26,000 acres now, and it runs about 13 miles north to south. The water is highly alkaline, and it's the only home of the native Eagle Lake trout, a rainbow trout that can top 10 pounds.
Layout
Most boating happens at the south end. The marina, called Gallatin Marina by the Forest Service and Eagle Lake Marina in state listings, is run through the Lassen Community College Foundation. It has fuel, rentals, slips and open boat storage, and a separate low-water ramp next to it. Aspen Grove launch is nearby off County Road A1. Spaulding Tract has a launch on the west shore, and Stones Landing serves the east side. BLM campgrounds sit on the north end off Highway 139.
What's different here
With no outlet, lake levels can drop far enough that the main marina ramp is out of reach, which is why the low-water ramp was built. The open basin gets wind, and the low-water ramp isn't protected by the jetty. The fishing season draws the most boaters, from Memorial Day weekend into winter.
Getting there & access
South shore by road
From Susanville, take Highway 36 and turn onto County Road A1 (Eagle Lake Road) to reach the south-shore marina and Aspen Grove launch.
North and east shore
The BLM campgrounds at North Eagle Lake and Rocky Point are reached by Highway 139, about 30 miles north of Susanville. Stones Landing is off Stones Road, and Spaulding Tract's launch is on The Strand on the west shore.
Low-water ramp
The Gallatin low-water ramp sits next to Gallatin Marina for times when the main marina ramp is out of reach. It's reached by an unsurfaced road from the end of the marina parking lot, has limited space, and is exposed to wind because it isn't behind the jetty.
Wind and conditions
Eagle Lake is a big, open basin at 5,100 feet. Watch the forecast, keep an eye on afternoon wind, and give yourself time to get back to a sheltered ramp.
Amenities
- Marina — Gallatin/Eagle Lake Marina: slip rentals, open boat storage, boat and fishing-gear rentals
- Fuel — Boat fuel at the marina
- Dry storage — 100 spaces listed at the marina
- Store and licenses — Convenience store, tackle, ice and fishing licenses at the marina store
- Fish cleaning — At the marina
- Showers and laundry — At the marina
- Camping — Forest Service family and group campgrounds; BLM North Eagle Lake and Rocky Point East/West campgrounds on the north end
Rules & official resources
- Never swim or float alone, and always wear appropriate safety equipment
- The low-water ramp is only for times when the main marina ramp is out of reach; space is limited, so wait your turn
- A California fishing license is required for anglers 16 and older; licenses are sold at the marina store
- Boats used in fresh water must display a current California Mussel Fee sticker on the hull next to the registration sticker
- California Boater Card required for all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, since January 1, 2025
Common boat service needs here
Engine service for altitude
At 5,100 feet, engines run differently than at sea level. Tune-ups and fuel-system checks before the season help outboards run well, especially for boats that only come up a few times a year.
Find Marine Mechanics & Engine Service providers →Washdown after alkaline water
The lake's alkaline water leaves mineral film on hulls and trailers. A thorough freshwater wash and detail after each trip protects the finish.
Find Boat Detailing & Washing providers →Covers and winterization storage
Cold winters and strong high-desert sun are both hard on canvas and upholstery. Good covers matter for boats in the marina's open storage.
Find Canvas, Covers & Upholstery providers →Slips and storage
The marina rents slips and open storage, and many owners keep a boat at the lake for the season instead of towing the long drive each time.
Find Marinas, Storage & Dock Services providers →Guides & FAQs
Nearby providers
No providers listed near this location yet — check back soon.
Sources
Last verified October 6, 2026