Convict Lake
A strikingly scenic alpine lake near Mammoth Lakes, popular for its dramatic mountain backdrop — regional safety guidance repeatedly and
California
Rainbow Falls (Devils Postpile National Monument)
A dramatic 101-foot waterfall on the Middle Fork San Joaquin River, reached via a scenic hike from the volcanic Devils
Lake Tahoe (public beaches, general)
One of the most scenic large alpine lakes in the US, with numerous public beaches around its shoreline — note
Sykes Hot Springs (Big Sur)
A remote, backcountry hot spring destination requiring a serious overnight backpacking trip through the Ventana Wilderness — access has been
Pfeiffer Falls / Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
A modest, scenic waterfall within a well-known Big Sur state park — treat as a viewing/hiking destination rather than a
Russian River (Guerneville area)
One of the most family-friendly and gentle major rivers in this California file — warm, slow-moving, and lined with resort