Clearlake borrows its name from the 68-square-mile spring-fed lake on which it is perched. And Clear Lake is no average body of water. At nearly half a million years old, it claims the distinction of being the oldest lake in North America. Formed by volcanic activity, there is still molten rock underneath it, which helps keep the water warm — it’s especially balmy during the summer — and deposits nutrient-rich sediment, creating an ideal breeding ground for fish. Clear Lake is often named as one of the best fishing spots in the country, especially for giant bass and catfish. All summer long visitors flow into little Clearlake and the other waterfront towns that dot the lakeshore to swim, kayak, and paddleboard. (Jet skis are allowed, too, if speed’s your thing.) But swimming in a prehistoric lake is not all that’s on offer here. You’ll also find small-town charm, world-class wilderness, and a booming wine scene. Turns out that volcanic soil is good for more than just fish.

Summer is high season in Clearlake, when hot weather makes for perfect days on the water. In spring the crowds recede a bit, but the sun still shines and wildflowers bloom in the surrounding forests. In fall the leaves change color, the temperature drops, and local communities celebrate harvest season with events such as Kelseyville’s Pear Festival, held the last Saturday in September. Winter is cold, and snow blankets the nearby mountains, making it a perfect time to cozy up in one of the area’s cabins for rent.

Winetasting

Lake County’s first vineyards were planted in the 1870s, but Prohibition halted wine production and the industry stayed dormant until the 1960s. Now the region that includes Clearlake is rife with more than 30 wineries and nearly 9,000 acres of high-elevation, volcanic wine crops. The area has especially earned a reputation for its Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon Blanc wines. You could easily spend a day circumnavigating Clear Lake and sampling local sips along the way, but if you’re feeling less ambitious, just head over to Kelseyville, which is home to more than a dozen tasting rooms.

Mendocino National Forest

Pack a picnic and head out for a day hike in this 913,306-acre wilderness. The forest is home to soaring conifers, verdant meadows, and cool lakes, and is exceedingly tranquil — it’s the only park in California’s network of 18 national forests that isn’t crossed by a paved road. Deer, black bears, jackrabbits, and bald eagles are just a few of the animals that live here, and throughout spring and summer, wildflowers such as California poppies and lilacs paint the grasslands.

Clarke’s Collectibles Lunch Box Museum

Drive 30 minutes north along the lakeshore to the village of Nice (named for the region in France, although it’s also a nice place to visit), home to one woman’s obsessive collection. More than 900 vintage lunch boxes celebrating classic TV show characters to disco are displayed throughout a brightly colored storefront, alongside salt and pepper shakers, Hot Wheels, and other kitsch. The museum is free and open to the public, but it's a good idea to call ahead and make sure it’s open.