01
Best overall pick
New Bullards Bar Reservoir
Sierra Foothills South Of Pike • Scenic Houseboat-Friendly Reservoir • Best Overall Lake Beach Experience
Towering pines, bright blue water, and tucked away coves make Bullards Bar the go to lake beach escape from Pike.
From Pike, this is the quickest way to trade dirt roads for deep blue water and a stretch of shoreline to call your own. Day use areas and boat in coves offer plenty of places to swim, sun, and set up a picnic without feeling crowded. It is ideal if your group mixes swimmers, paddlers, and people who just want to float and take in the forested canyon views.
02
Best for families
Scotts Flat Lake
East Of Nevada City • Laid Back Family Swim Beach On A Forest Lake • Best For Relaxed Family Days
A gentle shoreline, roped swim areas, and nearby amenities make Scotts Flat Lake feel easy with kids in tow.
The main swimming areas at Scotts Flat have a gradual sandy and pea gravel entry that suits younger swimmers and anyone easing into cold water. Tall trees behind the beach create pockets of shade, and the nearby campground and small marina keep snacks and rentals close. It is a smart choice when you want a simple, low stress lake day with clear water and an easy drive back toward Pike.
03
Best for camping and boating
Rollins Lake
Between Colfax And Grass Valley • Bustling Campground Lake With Pocket Beaches • Best For Camping And Boating Combos
Rollins Lake pairs small, lively beaches with campsites and boat ramps for a full weekend on the water.
Several arms of Rollins Lake have little coves where campers wander down from the pines to cool off at the waterline. The vibe is social and active, with fishing boats, ski boats, and paddle craft sharing the water through most of summer. If you want a beach that is more about energy and convenience than quiet, this is the reservoir to aim for.
04
Best warm water swim
Collins Lake
Foothills North Of Marysville • Warm Water Reservoir With A Classic Swim Beach • Best For Warm Summer Swimming
Collins Lake offers a broad, sun facing swim beach where the water warms up early and stays inviting late into the season.
Compared with the higher elevation lakes, Collins tends to feel noticeably warmer on peak summer afternoons, which makes long swims and lingering near shore more comfortable. The main beach has plenty of room to spread out, along with nearby shaded picnic tables and a small store for last minute supplies. It is a strong pick when your priority is simple: warm water, sun, and an easy setup for the day.
05
Best for quiet coves
Englebright Lake
Yuba River Canyon Near Smartsville • Narrow Cliff Lined Lake With Coves And Boat In Spots • Best For Quiet Coves And Exploring By Boat
Englebright trades wide open beaches for small, rocky coves that feel tucked away and wild.
Set deep in the Yuba River canyon, Englebright feels more like a flooded river gorge than a typical round reservoir. Many of the best little shoreline spots are reached by boat or paddle craft, which keeps the atmosphere calm and a bit more adventurous. Choose this lake if your idea of a beach day leans toward exploring narrow inlets, cliffy walls, and quieter corners away from road noise.