Re: Lake Shasta House Boats
Yes, Definitely a huge thumbs up here.
Went there over the 4'th this year, 5 days - 5 different arms of the lake. Water smooth as glass and 95+ degrees.
We rented from
http://www.shastalake.net/ and the experience was great. Because the boat we booked was free the night before they let us arrive early and sleep on the boat in the marina. We left our tube and the harbor master shipped it back for us.
Shasta is beautiful, there are natural water slides and caverns you can visit to get out of the heat for a little while. Having little destinations like that makes it an even better trip.
Couple of tips:
Costco and TJs are in Redding. Shop before you drop.
Bring an air matrace and sleep under the stars.
Make sure your crew is compatible, really compatible

Bring enough toys (ski-boats, jet-skis, but also swim rings and floaties)
We are coming back next year.
Roland