Lake Oroville State Recreation Area


This artificial lake was formed by the USA's tallest earth-filled dam, rising 770ft above the Feather River. There are boat-in, floating campsites available. The lake’s visitor center has exhibits on the California State Water Project and local tribe history, plus a viewing tower and loads of recreational information.

The area surrounding Lake Oroville is also full of hiking trails, and a favorite is the 7-mile round-trip walk to 640ft Feather Falls. The Brad Freeman Bicycle Trail is a 41-mile, off-road loop that takes cyclists to the top of 770ft Oroville Dam, then follows the Feather River back to the Thermalito Forebay and Afterbay storage reservoirs, east of Hwy 70. The ride is mostly flat, but the dam ascent is steep. Get a free map of the ride from the Oroville Area Chamber of Commerce. The Forebay Aquatic Center rents non-motorized watercraft to get out on the water.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Chinese Temple & Museum Complex

5.09 MILES

This restored temple and museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Oroville's Chinese legacy and is well worth exploring. Built in 1863, it served the…

2. South Yuba River State Park

22.18 MILES

Cool off with a dip at South Yuba River State Park, which has popular swimming holes and hiking trails. It's near Bridgeport, which has the USA’s longest…

3. Sierra Nevada Brewing Company

22.84 MILES

Hordes of beer fans gather at the birthplace of the nationally distributed Sierra Nevada Pale Ale and Schwarber, a Chico-only black ale. You can also…

4. Chico Creek Nature Center

23.35 MILES

If you plan on spending the afternoon in Bidwell Park, stop here first for displays on local plants and animals and excellent hands-on science programs…

5. City Plaza

23.98 MILES

This welcoming central park has a beautiful bandstand, fountains and a veteran's memorial, all situated around a cedar tree that is lit at Christmas. The…

6. Chico Children's Museum

24.04 MILES

Housed in a bright yellow building downtown, this playful educational space hosts permanent and rotating hands-on exhibits about health, science and…

7. Chico State University

24.33 MILES

Ask for a free map of the Chico State University campus, or about campus events and tours at the CSU Information Center, on the main floor of Bell…

8. Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park

24.34 MILES

Chico’s most prominent landmark, the opulent Victorian home was built for Chico’s founders, John and Annie Bidwell. The 26-room mansion was built between…