The Lodge at Blue Lakes

5135 CA-20, Upper Lake, CA 95485, Upper Lake, United States

4-star hotel

Guest rating: 4.1 / 5

The Lodge at Blue Lakes is a relaxed, historic lakeside resort in Upper Lake, California, dating to the 1870s and set directly on the shores of the Blue Lakes. Accommodations are individually furnished and understated, with lake or mountain views, Wi‑Fi, and flat-screen TVs; select rooms add features such as 4‑poster beds, kitchenettes, fireplaces, and/or whirlpool tubs. For longer stays or groups, 1- and 2-bedroom suites include full kitchens and living rooms. On the property, guests have access to an outdoor pool, BBQ area, rental boats, and dedicated fishing and swimming docks, emphasizing time on the water. The lodge also includes an event center with over 6,000 sq ft of space, noted for restored 1960s murals by a local artist. Nearby, the immediate draw is Blue Lakes itself (about 818 m away), with additional regional outings including Cow Mountain and the North Cow Mountain Recreation Area, plus Lake Mendocino within easy driving distance.

Best for

This property best suits travelers who want a lakeside base with on-site water access, thanks to the docks, swimming and fishing options, and boat rentals on Blue Lakes. It’s also a strong fit for weddings, receptions, and retreats due to its dedicated event center (6,000+ sq ft) and resort-style setup with suites that include full kitchens and living rooms.

Travel tips

If you’re coming primarily for the lake, plan time around Blue Lakes (roughly an 818 m trip to the point of interest) and pack what you need for water and shoreline time, as the property is oriented around docks and outdoor spaces. For off-property excursions, Cow Mountain (about 4.1 km) and North Cow Mountain Recreation Area (about 7.3 km) are among the closest outdoors destinations, while Lake Mendocino is about 15.1 km away for a longer day out. Rooms vary notably (some add kitchenettes, fireplaces, or whirlpool tubs), so confirm your specific room features before arrival if those amenities matter to your stay.

What guests say

Guests frequently highlight the lakeside setting and the appeal of spending time by the water, including a beach-style area and the ability to use outdoor BBQ spaces. Some reviews also mention strong service touches such as staff delivering breakfast to the room. The property is repeatedly cited as a good venue for weddings, receptions, and company retreats. However, a notable negative theme is that some guests feel upkeep and cleanliness do not match premium pricing, mentioning concerns about room cleanliness, maintenance, and the condition of equipment such as boats and grills, along with inconsistent customer service.

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