Things to do in a day: Relaxing with nature Published May 22, 2007 By Cassie Brown 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Finally, it's Friday and tension has you ready to explode. Escaping somewhere peaceful so you can hear yourself think is only a dream. Or is it? There is a quiet and beautiful place only a short drive away that is filled with relaxing and fun activities to lift your spirits - Lake Berryessa. Lake Berryessa is one of the largest bodies of fresh water in California and has the usual lake action, from good fishing, swimming, sailing, hiking, biking, picnicking, even house-boating, to private camp grounds. Imagine a sunny afternoon relaxing, the invigorating smell of the outdoors, water softly rocking your boat and warm breezes caressing your face. No phone, no computer, no television - just you and nature. Lake Berryessa provides many soothing and reasonably priced ways to enjoy the lake's qualities. The main lake is about 15 miles long and there are 165 miles of shoreline to explore. Rent a boat, canoe, kayak or paddleboat and discover all of the lake's little nooks. Moving at a slower pace makes this a very relaxing way to spend a beautiful summer day. For the men and women who go fishing as a way to relax, Lake Berryessa has multiple varieties of fish just waiting to steal your bait. Shoreline fishing access can be found at specific places and of course you can always fish from your boat. Some of the remarkable fish to take home as a prize include rainbow trout, small and largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, silver salmon and bluegill. Renting from a variety of houseboats is a great way to spend more than a day at the lake without ever getting off the water, giving new meaning to the idea of sleeping on a water bed. However, if you prefer the more active lake activities, rent a speed boat. Simply rev-up its engine and enjoy yourself by participating in any water sport that suites your fancy such as water skiing, tubing or knee boarding. If you want to spend the night at the lake, but not on the water, many resorts at Lake Berryessa offer all types of camping. From rustic camping sites for actual tents and fire pits, to over 50 sites for RVs with full hookups, including 30 AMP electricity, to beautiful cabins with all of the amenities from home, there is a camping experience ready for any outdoor adventurer. Lake Berryessa is a picturesque retreat that helps relieve the stress of the work week with its natural beauty. By spending some quality time with nature and those whom you love, you can concentrate on yourself and appreciate what is truly important in your life. For more information on resorts and pricing, visit www.lakeberryessa.com.