No Whiskey in Whiskeytown
Posted on August 31, 2009 by angela6 Comments
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.
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–
Tags: Redding, Shasta, WhiskeyTown
Filed Under: California