Lake County has THE best picnic spots for late Summer and Fall

Views of Clear Lake, Vineyards, Mountains and More

Lake County is picnic country — shady oaks, sparkling shoreline, quiet mountain trails, and vineyard views that make even a simple sandwich feel special. Whether you’re planning a family outing, a romantic afternoon, or a slow‑travel day exploring the county, these are some of the top Lake County parks perfect for slowing down and savoring summer.

Lakeside Park — Kelseyville:  Picnic Areas • BBQs • Beach Access • Dog Park • Fishing Dock

Often called “The County Park,” Lakeside Park is one of Lake County’s most feature‑rich outdoor spaces. Shaded picnic tables, lake breezes, wetlands, walkways, and plenty of room for families make it an ideal all‑day picnic destination. Bring your cooler, your kids, your dog — there’s space for everyone.

Clear Lake State Park — Kelseyville: Designated Picnic Areas • Trails • Swimming • Wildlife

Nestled among oaks and pines, Clear Lake State Park offers shaded picnic sites with easy access to hiking trails, fishing spots, and swimming areas. It’s a favorite for nature‑loving families who want a picnic paired with adventure.

Highland Springs Recreation Area — Lakeport:  Picnic Tables • Trails • Disc Golf • Quiet Coves

Highland Springs is a peaceful, open‑space gem. Enjoy a picnic before exploring miles of trails or relaxing beside the reservoir. With quiet coves and abundant wildlife, it’s perfect for long, lazy afternoons outdoors.

Lucerne Harbor Park — Lucerne:  Picnic Spots • Artist Village • Fishing Pier

A picturesque harbor setting with picnic areas, playgrounds and fishing.  Featuring the unique Artist Village, visitors can browse galleries and purchase work from local artists.  It is perfect for a mix of outdoor recreation, culture, photography, and shopping in one location.

Picnic‑Perfect Wineries: Where to Sip, Snack & Slow Down This Summer

With wide‑open landscapes, welcoming tasting rooms, and plenty of shaded outdoor spaces, our wineries offer some of the best picnic‑friendly experiences in Northern California. Here are just a few local favorites that make it simple to sip, snack, and savor the sunshine.

Brassfield Estate Winery — Clearlake Oaks

Grand Views • Elegant Grounds • Bring‑Your‑Own Picnic Brassfield’s Mediterranean‑style estate offers sweeping views and an atmosphere perfect for a leisurely picnic. While they don’t serve full meals, visitors can enjoy light bites or bring their own food to pair with estate wines. The tasting patio and surrounding grounds create a picture‑perfect backdrop for a summer afternoon.

The Mercantile — Lakeport

Wine on Tap • Gourmet Market • Shaded Picnic Lawns The Mercantile is Lake County’s most complete picnic‑friendly wine destination — ideal for lunchtime or dinner. Enjoy wine on tap, bottled selections, gourmet market items, and weekly evening food pop‑ups ranging from tacos to smashburgers. With shaded picnic tables on a large lawn, it’s a lively, family‑friendly stop where travelers can build a picnic on the spot and enjoy live music or community events. Guests can even harvest zinnias and herbs at no extra charge — snipping shears included. Note: Outside food isn’t permitted, but the Mercantile’s offerings make picnicking easy.

Plan Your Perfect Lake County Picnic

From lakeside parks to vineyard lawns, Lake County offers endless ways to enjoy the outdoors. Pack a cooler, grab gourmet bites from a local market, or pair your picnic with a bottle from one of our wineries — the backdrop is always beautiful.  For more picnic spot ideas coupled with a hike, check out our recent blog for hiking in Lake County.