Soda Lake

We drove out to the Carrizo Plain National Monument, toward Soda Lake, and then onto the visitor center. After that, we continued toward Bakersfield to see that portion of the monument before driving back toward Atascadero.
There are lots of blooming flowers at soda lake with lots of great views.

We moved here recently and started a hipcamp, the area is so quiet and serene. Soda Lake is definitely something worth taking your time to see. If interested in a beautiful camp site, check us out on hipcamp & IG at The Starita Farm. (Only a few minutes from Soda Lake)

With a name like Soda Lake you know what is in store- salt. Anybody who reviewed this place in the negative was obviously expecting Disneyland. Its not, and thats what makes it awesome for tranauility seekers. It's nature - pure and raw and beautiful.

If you're looking for some very interesting scenery, you'll want to drive out to Soda Like. There is a good lookout point where you can see for miles.

This is the best dead lake I've ever seen! Ther eis a very intersting history from before the water was stolen from it.

However, the very interesting part is the San AndreasFault. You can see it streatch across the landscape. If you go about 10 miles past Soda Lake, heading South, you can turn left and drive up into the fault. That is a spooky feeling and worth 5 stars.

Going to Soda Lake is a full afternoon excursion.

The Soda Lake area is fascinating and can be beautiful, depending on when you go. It's at its best in springtime, especially if we've had enough rain. Don't forget to check out the dramatic example of the San Andreas fault impact on the north side.

It is a longer drive but make sure you come in from Highway 166 end, I think a more interesting drive. The lake is very different for our area with many birds. It is also close the the San Andreas fault line, which is interesting in its self, very visible on the eastern side of the lake.

It is a great place if you are looking for solitude. It's a trip into the remote area of California where you see very few if any people. I must say it is a little bit mystical, or at least it seemed that way the day we ventured out. If you are looking for a great day trip out from the Central Coast you should consider Soda Lake.

Even though this is a rather short drive from much of the Central Coast Communities
few people either know or discuss visiting here. While people "infest" the entire area
when Wildflowers bloom, it is worth a visit to see such interesting Alien landscape.
Soda Lake is frequently almost dried up & full of millions of tons of salt.thus brine
shrimp live here.
While it is a little known National Park, who knows if it will remain protected in the
future. It's very solitude is a plusbut it will become a dangers visit if you get
stuck after dark unprepared. There is little or no facilities, no cell service, and
AAA will likely not help.

While there is a dirt road that goes from end to end, you will likely need to rent
a four wheel drive.

Another issue is that the drive here is quite curvaceous & those who are prone to
being car sick are in for it.

There was water in the lake that showed the reflections of the flowers. The flowers were so pretty. It was well worth the drive.

I've been to Soda Lake several times over the years and have enjoyed it every time. There is an overlook on a nearby hill (restroom facilities) which is a must-do. Be sure to also walk along the shore boardwalk. The lake is an Audubon "Important Bird Area" so keep an eye out for a variety of bird species. Burrowing Owls have been spotted in the area. Other near by attractions include the BLM visitor's center and Painted Rock. Roll all of these visits into one trip - it's well worth it.