No Whiskey in Whiskeytown

The day started with news that the part Jason was to pick up in Redding wasn’t available yet, so we knew we needed to stick close by. We got our usual late start and drove through the nearly 100 degree heat of the day until we rolled into Whiskeytown Lake around 4:30.

Jason showed all the patience he could in dealing with the hosts at the Oak Bottom campsite, who seemed to have no idea what sites were available.  We drove around and noticed there weren’t many sites with parking near them, so we picked a couple that did and headed back to the camp store. After much confusion and a long wait, we got a site and headed straight for the beach area of the lake. It was a nice beach and the water was warm. On our way to the campsite, Jason happened to read the rules of the campsite, which stated no sleeping in cars. We considered stealth camping (not popping the top), but figured it might be obvious if there was no tent set up. Jason said he should have trusted those feelings he had when he first dealt with the hosts and taken off.

While trying to get a refund, I asked the host if she could recommend a motel in Whiskeytown. She said no, but to stay away from California St. Um, okay onward to WHISKEYTOWN!!! We’ve been to Shasta several times, and I’ve always wanted to go to Whiskeytown.

It was clearly marked on the map, just a few miles from where we were, and a large sign posted on the highway directed us north 4 miles. All day, the thought of seeing the town whetted my thirst. I love the band *, I love the drink, and how exciting that it would be right in the middle of a beautiful Whiskeytown National Forest. I was going to find the seediest bar/restaurant that allows 4 year olds, saunter up through the swinging doors and get me a whiskey! We followed the signs, and realized that aside from a boarded up general store, there was no town. A few boat launches, and a great lake that looked fun, but no whiskey to be had.

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A little defeated, we headed back to Redding and got a cheap motel room. A warm shower and a good meal and we’re ready to try again tomorrow.

*not the best version of this song, but it does feature Beatle Bob, and I know Alison will love it 😉

This situation don’t feel so right…

– Ryan Adams, WhiskeyTown

–currently headed towards Lake of the Woods and Crater lake–

6 thoughts on “No Whiskey in Whiskeytown

  • August 31, 2009 at 12:46 PM
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    I spent my lunch hour catching up on your tales since I just discovered your story in the cc times. We live on Thompson Ave (Christmas Tree Lane) in Alameda so I join others from Alameda in wishing you guys safe travels, and a whole lotta luck.

  • August 31, 2009 at 5:33 PM
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    If it was MY campsite, I wouldn’t care if you slept standing up, as long as you paid and didn’t make a lot of noise. I don’t get the “can’t sleep in your van”….do you realize how fewer people there would be in this world if people weren’t allowed to sleep together in their VW vans in the 60’s and 70’s? Remember the bumper sticker “if my van is rockin’, don’t bother knockin'”? Jeaz.
    Dave

  • August 31, 2009 at 7:03 PM
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    What a surprise to walk out of the grocery and find your card under the wiper blade! I wish you’d let us know you were passing through Ashland: we’ve got extra space, showers, and the chance for Bode to visit his former playroom. The little vert provides lots of fun and opportunities for work avoidance. Best wishes for your continuing adventure.
    Dan

  • August 31, 2009 at 7:40 PM
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    Whiskeytown lake what a beautifull place. I call it a teaser lake. My family/group has been going to Trinity lake since the mid ’70s. After driving 6 or so hours from the bay area
    (Newark) we are sooooo anxious to get to Trinity lake maybe another 40-60 mi. So here we are passing over part of Whiskeytown lake. Water up to the tree line, people floating on air mattress, boats galore and we still have miles to go. What a tease. I’ve thought many times about stopping and jumping in!! By the way if its not out of your way Trinity lake is a very nice lake. Although this year with the water level way down it kind of sucks,but with no boat the low water level shouldn’t be a problem for you. We go to the northern part of the lake to a place called KOA campground (used to be Wyntoon). Has tent camping,RV sites with hook ups,flush toilets and showers,and washers and dryers. There is a snack bar, a play ground for the kids, and my favorite a swimming pool. Its about 30 mi. outside of weaverville on hwy 3. Hope you continue to have a safe and enjoyable trip.
    Steve

  • August 31, 2009 at 7:57 PM
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    So many great suggestions, but we’re a few days ahead of these posts. We’ll add where we are headed at the end of the posts, and hopefully capitalize on everyone’s knowledge of the area. Thanks so much for the recommendations, keep them coming!

  • August 31, 2009 at 9:59 PM
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    You must realize that now that his name has been mentioned it’s only a matter of time before Beatle Bob pops up somewhere along the way for you all. Just remember when he starts his “throwing dice” move to STAND BACK. (Bummer about no whiskey in Whiskeytown, serious bummer.)

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