Fog City may have relatively mild summers: it’s one of the things that we love about San Francisco. Still, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy yourself with fun in the sun. If you’re up for an adventure, there are plenty of lazy rivers near San Francisco where you can try out tubing, river floating, or even lazy river rafting. Explore some of these lakes and rivers near San Francisco — we have so many opportunities for water fun around the Bay area!

1. Russian River
Flickr/Brian




The Russian River is the classic river getaway for city and Bay area residents. If you're looking to enjoy the best of Northern California, look no further. There is no better way to experience the beauty of the mighty Russian River than to take a trip down it. There are a number of worthwhile tubing locations along the river.
2. Bass Lake
Flickr/Amy Meredith
Bass Lake is the perfect spot for anything fun and summery near San Francisco. Before you arrive, make sure you are prepared to hike. This is a lake for all occasions and wonderful amusements. Tubing is just one of the many attractions here. You're also not far from one of the most beautiful waterfalls near San Francisco: Alamere Falls.
3. Lake Berryessa
Flickr/Dan Brekke




Looking for the perfect destination to relax for a weekend? It doesn't get much better than Napa. Lake Berryessa is perfect for thrill-seekers and relaxers alike. If you want to get away and have some real summer thrills, check out the heart-stopping view of the glory hole: it's wild and looks like an optical illusion, but it's real life. If you prefer something a little more chill, take a tube and enjoy one of the best floats near San Francisco.

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4. Spring Lake
Flickr/JJG53
Spring Lake is the perfect place to visit for the entire family. Kayaking, canoeing, floats, and tubes are all fantastic options for enjoying a day out on the water. Spring Lake Regional Park is massive and such a delight. There is a lot to do in this Santa Rosa park!
5. American River
Flickr/Ken Lund
The American River offers up so many options for fun that will make your day bright and joyful. If you have a tube or inflatable, the section from Ponderosa to Upper Clementine is a particularly easy put-in spot for relaxing down the river. If you've never been rafting down the American River, it's one of the most enjoyable activities in Northern California and definitely belongs on your bucket list.
6. Sacramento River
Flickr/Bureau of Reclamation





Willing to explore a little? Head out towards Sacramento. Along the Sacramento River, you'll find plenty of tubing action. As the longest river in Northern California, there's more than enough room for fun here!

Have you ever been to any of these lakes and lazy rivers near San Francisco? Share your experiences in the comments! Want even more waterside fun? Check out these waterfront trails near San Francisco.

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More to Explore

Lazy Rivers Near San Francisco

Lisa Sammons | May 24, 2022

What is summer in San Francisco like?

  • Summer in San Francisco is a great time. The weather stays relatively cool without getting too hot. You actually don't even have to wear shorts through most of the summer months! With so many great summer activities near San Francisco, you'll certainly never be bored.

 

What are some more lakes and lazy rivers near San Francisco?

One of the best rivers near San Francisco is the:

  • Russian River. It's perfect for spending a relaxing day on the water. It's no wonder that it's been a tourist attraction for over a century now — it's the perfect recreational body of water.

 

What are the best beaches near San Francisco?

  • There are so many beaches in San Francisco, some lesser-known than others. If you're wanting to enjoy a day in the sun, it doesn't get much better than spending the day on one of our beautiful beaches. They're the perfect summer destination!

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