Huairou Shanshuiyuan Resort is a top choice, nestled beside Deshengkou Reservoir with lake-view rooms and wooden cabins offering serene mountain-lake scenery. The resort features fishing zones, eco-trails, and outdoor bonfire gatherings, perfect for nature lovers and families seeking tranquility. Located just 1.5 hours from Beijing city center, it’s ideal for weekend getaways with scenic drives through rural landscapes. Nearby picnic areas and camping spots enhance the immersive experience of northern Beijing’s countryside charm.

The most convenient option is driving or HopeGoo a private car, taking about 90 minutes via Jingcheng Expressway to Huairou Exit, then following local roads to the reservoir. For public transit, take Line 13 Subway to Dongzimmen, transfer to the "Beijing-Huairou" intercity bus, disembark at Huairou Bus Station, then take a local bus or taxi. However, schedules are limited and travel time is longer. Driving offers greater flexibility, allowing stops at scenic spots like Yanyi Lake and Qinglong Gorge along the way, greatly enhancing the overall journey.

Visitors can enjoy unique experiences such as paddle boating (with pedal and rowing boats), fishing by the lake (equipment rental available), eco-friendly hiking along the lakeside trail exploring native forests and streams, and stargazing camping (summer only). Some resorts also offer wild plant guided tours and photography workshops, deepening appreciation for the local ecosystem. Early mornings bring misty lakeshores—ideal for capturing stunning photos blending nature and human presence, making it a hidden gem for photographers.

Huairou Shanshui Children’s Inn is ideal for family visits, featuring a kids’ playroom, family farm area, and safe open lawns. It offers family-themed rooms and suites with baby cots and child-sized cutlery. On-site activities include fruit picking, pottery classes, and nature education talks, turning play into learning. The restaurant serves organic, healthy meals with customizable options. Located just a 5-minute walk from the reservoir, it provides a peaceful, child-safe environment perfect for urban families seeking a reconnect-with-nature getaway.

The reservoir transforms beautifully across seasons: Spring brings lush greenery with cherry blossoms and rhododendrons blooming along the shore; Summer offers shimmering waters perfect for boating and cooling off; Autumn paints the hills in fiery hues, with maple leaves mirrored in the lake like a living canvas; Winter blankets the landscape in snow, with frozen surfaces and occasional snowy birds soaring above. Each season hosts unique light effects and wildlife—spring migratory birds, autumn squirrels—making it ideal for photography, sketching, or quiet contemplation. Choose your visit based on desired atmosphere.

Must-try local specialties include Huairou Chestnut Chicken and wild mushroom soup, both made with fresh seasonal ingredients and rich in flavor. Many lakeside restaurants offer catch-and-cook experiences, where guests can fish their own meal and enjoy it freshly steamed or grilled. Other popular souvenirs include wild honey cookies and high-altitude tea. Most dining venues feature semi-outdoor seating with panoramic lake views, enhancing the culinary experience. HopeGoo in advance is recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure the freshest local delicacies.