Resort at a Glance: Jones Valley Resort

Lake houses and resorts keep you as close to the water as possible—well, almost. Jones Valley Resort’s luxurious house boats let you spend your vacation atop the water. The Odyssey and Escapade, both equipped with a TV and hot tub, sleep up to 15 guests. Once you’re aboard, you can spend your days swimming, fishing, and taking in the fresh air without ever leaving the comforts of your home base.

• Onboard water slides are fun for kids and adults alike.
• Soak in the hot tub on the upper deck or stretch out and catch some sun.
• Private staterooms: there are two each on the Odyssey and Escapade
• Galley kitchens are equipped with all the essentials including stainless-steel appliances, cookware, bakeware, utensils, and cleaning supplies

Redding, California: The Jewel of Northern California

One of the largest cities in the Sacramento Valley, Redding serves as a hub for exploring the region’s lakes, forests, and mountains. With Lake Shasta just 14 miles to the north, Lassen Volcanic National Park 48 miles to the east, and Whiskeytown National Recreation Area’s waterfalls to the west, the opportunities for outdoor adventure seem endless. There are 220 miles of trails throughout the Redding area, perfect for hiking and biking.

In the center of town, the impressive 700-foot-long Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay attracts visitors as a marvel of modern engineering. Its 217-foot support tower points due north, making it a functioning sundial as well. The bridge joins both campuses of the 300-acre Turtle Bay Exploration Park, where visitors can explore the arboretum and gardens or just stroll by the Sacramento River’s shores. At the Cascade Theatre, which was restored to its original art-deco luster in 2004, musical acts and comedians perform.