What are some options for inexpensive (I realize that's completely
subjective, but just use your best judgment) vacation getaways within a
3 hour drive from the Bay Area? I'm looking for places I could
conceivably buy a small piece of land & put a trailer or a pre-fab
cabin on, or an already existing unit. I'd like it to be near a lake,
preferably one that is warm enough for swimming. My grandparents had a
great vacation mobile home in Clearlake, CA & I'm kind of trying to
find a place that in the future I can spend the summers in a low-key
way. Thank you!

. . Clear lake & Lake Berryessa Both N. of the Bay Area are good
options, also up in the 'Motherlode', I.E., Tolumne County has Lake
Don Pedro, Jamestown, Sonora and the historical town of Columbia
famous as the set for "High Noon" . . search Chambers of Commerce in
those areas for more info, good luck !