Shasta Lake

Shasta County

Shasta Lake

Life on California's Largest Reservoir

Pop. ~10,400Elev. 1,070 ftEst. 1938

About Shasta Lake

Discover Shasta Lake

The City of Shasta Lake sits at the doorstep of California's largest reservoir, Shasta Lake, with its stunning 365 miles of shoreline. Born from the construction of the massive Shasta Dam in the 1930s, this community has grown into a vibrant city that combines affordable living with unmatched access to water recreation. Whether you dream of morning bass fishing, afternoon houseboating, or evening sunsets over the water, Shasta Lake puts it all within reach.

The City of Shasta Lake traces its origins to the construction of Shasta Dam between 1938 and 1945, when thousands of workers and their families settled in the area. Originally known as "Summit City" and later "Central Valley," the community incorporated as the City of Shasta Lake in 1993. Shasta Dam remains one of the largest concrete dams in the country and continues to be a major tourist attraction.

Shasta Lake scenic 1
Shasta Lake scenic 2
Shasta Lake scenic 3

Education

Schools & Education

The Gateway Unified School District serves the Shasta Lake community with eight schools spanning K-12. Grand Oaks Elementary receives high marks from families, while Central Valley High School provides comprehensive academics, sports programs, and college preparation support.

Gateway Unified School District

K-12 · Public

8 schools serving 2,300+ students

Grand Oaks Elementary

K-5 · Public

Highly rated elementary school

Central Valley High School

9-12 · Public

Strong academics and college prep support

Community

Community Resources

The City of Shasta Lake offers a full range of municipal services and community resources. With its own city hall, community center, and visitor center, the city provides residents with convenient access to government services and community gathering spaces.

City of Shasta Lake City Hall

Municipal government offices providing city services, planning, permits, and community programs

Larry J. Farr Community Center

Community center with meeting rooms, event space, audio-visual system, and kitchen facilities for community events

Shasta Lake Visitor Center

Visitor information and community meeting room available for groups and organizations

Shasta Lake Post Office

Full-service United States Post Office serving the Shasta Lake community

Shasta Lake Historical Society

Preserving and sharing the history of Shasta Dam and the communities of the Shasta Lake area

Family & Community Life

Living in Shasta Lake means having one of California's most spectacular bodies of water as your playground. It's where weekday commutes to Redding are short and weekends on the lake are long.

Family-Friendly Features

  • Affordable family homes in established neighborhoods
  • Year-round lake recreation for the whole family
  • Strong school system with multiple options
  • Community parks and playgrounds
  • Easy commute to Redding for work and shopping
  • Active community organizations and youth programs

Community Highlights

  • Shasta Dam Days
  • Lake Shasta Fishing Tournaments
  • Community Park Events
  • Fourth of July Celebrations
  • Neighborhood Block Parties

Climate

Warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The lake moderates temperatures slightly compared to Redding. Plenty of sunshine for year-round outdoor enjoyment, with summer temperatures perfect for water activities.

Healthcare

Healthcare & Amenities

Shasta Lake residents enjoy quick access to Redding's two major hospitals, both just 10 minutes south. Local medical offices and urgent care facilities handle everyday health needs right in the community.

Mercy Medical Center Redding

Major regional hospital, approximately 10 minutes south

Shasta Regional Medical Center

Full-service hospital, approximately 10 minutes south

Local clinics and medical offices

Medical offices and clinics serving Shasta Lake residents

Pharmacy and urgent care services

Pharmacy and walk-in care options in the Shasta Lake area

Things To Do

Recreation & Attractions

If you love water, you'll love Shasta Lake. The city sits at the gateway to California's largest reservoir, known worldwide for houseboating, bass fishing, and water sports. Add in the famous Shasta Caverns and Dam tours, and you have a recreation paradise.

Shasta Lake

California's largest reservoir with 365 miles of shoreline. The houseboating capital of the world

Shasta Dam

The second tallest dam in the US, offering tours and spectacular views of the lake and Mt. Shasta

Lake Shasta Caverns

Stunning underground caverns accessible by boat cruise and scenic bus ride

Shasta Lake Water Sports

World-class bass fishing, water skiing, jet skiing, kayaking, and swimming

Houseboating

Shasta Lake is known worldwide as the houseboating capital, with dozens of rental companies

Hiking & Biking Trails

Miles of trails along the lake shore and through surrounding National Forest land

Living in Shasta Lake

Your Future Home

Why Live in Shasta Lake?

1

Unparalleled access to Shasta Lake's 365 miles of shoreline

2

Some of the most affordable housing in Shasta County

3

Gateway to houseboating, fishing, water skiing, and swimming

4

Minutes from Redding's full urban amenities

5

Shasta Dam and Lake Shasta Caverns as backyard attractions

6

Growing community with strong neighborhood identity

Explore the Region

Nearby Attractions

Shasta DamLake Shasta CavernsMt. ShastaCastle Crags State ParkSundial Bridge

Ready to Call Shasta Lake Home?

Browse available properties in Shasta County or contact our local team to start your journey.

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