Lake guide
Lake Almanor
Chester, Plumas County, CA
Overview
Lake Almanor is a large PG&E hydroelectric reservoir on the North Fork Feather River in Plumas County, sitting at about 4,500 feet. The first dam went in in 1914 and the present dam, built in 1926–27, more than doubled the lake's size. Communities around the shore include Chester, Prattville, Canyon Dam and the Lake Almanor Peninsula.
Launches
Lassen National Forest's Almanor Ranger District runs the public launches on the west and south shores: the Almanor Boat Launch (two lanes and a courtesy dock) at Almanor Campground, the West Shore ramp, and the Canyon Dam ramp at the lake's southeast corner. Private resorts on the east shore and peninsula, including Lake Cove Resort & Marina on Highway 147, add launching, rentals and pump-outs.
Boating at elevation
This is a mountain lake with a short season: the Forest Service launch is open roughly mid-April through October, weather permitting. Maximum depth is about 90 feet. Water level varies year to year with PG&E operations, so check current lake levels.
Fishing
Fishing is a major draw. The state has issued mercury-based safe-eating advice for fish caught here.
Getting there & access
Almanor Boat Launch (west shore)
From Chester take Highway 36 west to Highway 89 south, continue about 6 miles to Almanor Drive West. The launch has two lanes, a courtesy dock and parking for trailers, with the ramp in the north campground. Open mid-April through October, weather dependent.
Canyon Dam (southeast)
Off Highway 89 at Canyon Dam. The Forest Service ramp has one boarding float, two carry-down walkways, a swimming area and about 40 trailer parking spaces.
West Shore and East Shore
The West Shore Forest Service ramp has a boarding float, about 20 trailer spaces and a pump-out. On the east shore, Lake Cove Resort & Marina at 3584 Highway 147 offers launching valet service, rentals and a pump-out.
Mussel prevention
Registered boats need a current Mussel Fee Sticker for fresh water. Clean, drain and dry before launching, and check with the Almanor Ranger District about any current inspection requirements.
Amenities
- Almanor Boat Launch — Two lanes, courtesy dock, trailer parking (Lassen NF)
- Canyon Dam Boat Ramp — One boarding float, two carry-down walkways, 40 trailer spaces, swim area
- West Shore ramp — Boarding float, about 20 trailer spaces, pump-out
- Lake Cove Resort & Marina — 3584 Hwy 147, East Shore; (530) 284-7697; rentals, launching valet, store, pump-out
- Almanor Campground — $18/night single sites, generally Memorial Day–Labor Day
- Almanor Ranger District office — 900 E. Hwy 36, Chester; Mon–Fri 8 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Rules & official resources
- Almanor Boat Launch is open mid-April through October, weather dependent
- Almanor Campground: quiet hours 10 p.m.–6 a.m., campfires only in provided rings, dogs on leash, maximum 2 vehicles and 8 people per site
- Registered boats used in fresh water must display a current Mussel Fee Sticker on the hull next to the registration sticker; failure to display it can mean denial of access or a citation
- California Boater Card required for all operators of motorized vessels, regardless of age, since January 1, 2025
Common boat service needs here
Winterization
At 4,500 feet, freezing winters mean engines, water systems and outdrives need proper winterizing every fall.
Find Marine Mechanics & Engine Service providers →Storage over winter
Many owners are seasonal and need covered or indoor storage nearby when the launch season ends in October.
Find Marinas, Storage & Dock Services providers →Covers and canvas
High-elevation UV and winter snow loads are tough on covers, Bimini tops and upholstery.
Find Canvas, Covers & Upholstery providers →Spring commissioning
Batteries, electronics and charging systems need attention after a long winter layup before mid-April opening.
Find Marine Electrical & Electronics providers →Guides & FAQs
Nearby providers
No providers listed near this location yet — check back soon.
Sources
Last verified October 6, 2026