Highland Springs Recreation Area

The Highland Springs Recreation Area is a pawrific place to spend a lovely day in nature with your four-legged pal. Just 5 miles from Lakeport, this 3,200-acre watershed is a gold mine for a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, non-motorized boating, and picnicking.

Explore the site's rugged yet beautiful terrain by hitting the trails with your energetic pup! Originally created by hunters on horseback more than 100 years ago, the paths are now maintained by a dedicated group of volunteers known as the Highland Springs Trails Volunteers. So far, they have recovered 30 miles of overgrown trails and fire roads for hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians to use! Because the recreation area wraps around rolling foothills and the Highland Springs Reservoir, you and Fido will get to enjoy green scenery and water views as you tackle the trails.

The routes vary from easy to moderate, and many of them are well-marked. If you and your pooch venture into the open chaparral on the hillsides, you'll be treated to puptacular vistas of Mount Konocti and other mountains. At the reservoir, you should be able to spot an assortment of birds, particularly the red-winged blackbird. It is highly recommended to visit Highland Springs in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. Fairy lanterns, blue lupine, ground irises, and yellow star grass are just some of the species that dot the hillsides and meadows from March through May.

Make sure your pup stays leashed at all times during your hike and remember to clean up after them! When it's time to give your feet and paws a break, stop by the picnic area next to the reservoir to tuck into a packed lunch. Other facilities on the site include restrooms, horseshoe pits, a basketball court, and a disc golf course. A woofderful outdoor adventure awaits you and Fido at the Highland Springs Recreation Area!