CENTRAL SIERRA

Sardine Lake Resort:

Log cabins set near beautiful Sardine Lake at the foot of the Sierra Buttes. Often wait-listed, yet openings are still available in June and also late September to mid-October. Weekly rates from $1,300. 990 Sardine Lake Road, Sierra City. (530) 862-1196. www.sardinelake resort.com

Salmon Lake Lodge:

High-end operation with woodsy wilderness-style cabins at Salmon Lake, a gorgeous setting where you take a boat to reach cabins. Includes use of boats, kayaks, SUPs. Can be wait-listed for years. Tent cabins also available. Weekly rates from $1,000. Sierra City. (530) 852-0874. www.salmonlake.net

Caples Lake Resort:

Caples Lake is one of the best in the Sierra for trout fishing. Cabins, small marina, boat rentals and scenery at 8,000 feet complete the picture. Nightly rates from $210. 1111 Highway 88, Kirkwood, (209) 258-8888. www.caples lakeresort.com

Bear River Lake Resort:

In a big snow year, Bear River Reservoir, at 5,800 feet, becomes accessible earlier than other mountain destinations. Cabins include linen service and have full baths and kitchens. Full service, with boat rentals. Nightly rates from $117. 40800 Highway 88, Pioneer. (209) 295-4868. www.carsonpass.com — click on Bear River Reservoir.

Kit Carson Lodge:

Rustic cabins with knotty-pine interiors are located at 7,300 feet near Silver Lake along Highway 88. Nightly rates from $210. 32161 Kit Carson Road, Kit Carson. (209) 2588500. www.kitcarson lodge.com