Butte County: A Blend of Natural Beauty and Rich History in Northern California

Main Attractions in Butte County

1. Bidwell Park:

Located in Chico, Bidwell Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, spanning over 3,600 acres. Divided into Lower Bidwell Park and Upper Bidwell Park, the park offers a wide variety of recreational activities. Lower Bidwell features easy walking trails, swimming holes, picnic areas, and the Sycamore Pool, a unique swimming area built within Big Chico Creek. Upper Bidwell, with its rugged terrain and scenic vistas, is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing. The park is also home to Bidwell Mansion, a historic Victorian home once owned by John Bidwell, one of Chico’s founders and a prominent figure in California history.

2. Feather Falls:

Located in the Plumas National Forest, Feather Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in California, with a drop of 410 feet. The Feather Falls National Recreation Trail is a 9-mile loop that offers breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding canyon. The trail is popular with hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering a moderately challenging hike through beautiful forested terrain. The falls are especially impressive during the spring, when water flow is at its peak due to snowmelt from the Sierra Nevada.

3. Lake Oroville:

Lake Oroville, one of California’s largest reservoirs, is a popular destination for boating, fishing, camping, and water sports. The lake is also a major hub for houseboating, offering visitors a chance to explore its numerous coves and inlets. The Oroville Dam, which creates the lake, is the tallest dam in the United States. The lake is surrounded by the scenic Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, which includes hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping facilities. Visitors can also enjoy panoramic views of the lake from the Lake Oroville Visitor Center, which features exhibits about the area’s history and dam construction.

4. Table Mountain:

Located just north of Oroville, Table Mountain is a flat-topped volcanic plateau known for its stunning spring wildflower displays and seasonal waterfalls. The North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve is a popular spot for hiking, wildflower viewing, and picnicking. During the spring, the plateau is covered in vibrant carpets of wildflowers, including lupines, poppies, and owl’s clover. Phantom Falls, a seasonal waterfall, is one of the highlights of the area, offering a dramatic drop into a rocky canyon.

5. Chico State University (California State University, Chico):

Founded in 1887, Chico State is one of the oldest universities in the California State University system. The campus is known for its beautiful tree-lined pathways, historic buildings, and vibrant student culture. Chico State University Arboretum is a serene space on campus that features a wide variety of plant species from around the world. The university also hosts cultural events, lectures, and performances throughout the year, contributing to the lively arts and cultural scene in Chico.

6. Gold Nugget Museum:

Located in Paradise, the Gold Nugget Museum celebrates the area’s Gold Rush history and the heritage of the town. The museum features exhibits on mining, local history, and pioneer life, including a replica of a Gold Rush-era miner’s cabin. Paradise itself has a deep connection to California’s Gold Rush, and the museum plays a key role in preserving and sharing that history with the community and visitors.

7. Sierra Nevada Brewing Company:

Founded in Chico in 1980, Sierra Nevada Brewing Company is one of the pioneers of the craft beer movement in the United States. The brewery offers tours of its state-of-the-art facilities, where visitors can learn about the brewing process and sample a variety of craft beers. The Sierra Nevada Taproom & Restaurant features a menu of locally sourced, organic foods paired with the brewery’s signature beers, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

Famous Cities and Towns in Butte County

1. Chico:

As the largest city in Butte County and home to Chico State University, Chico is a lively college town known for its tree-lined streets, historic architecture, and thriving arts scene. In addition to its beautiful campus, Chico boasts the expansive Bidwell Park, which provides residents and visitors with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The downtown area is filled with cafes, art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants, creating a vibrant and walkable city center. Chico is also famous for its festivals, such as the Chico Wildflower Century, a popular cycling event, and the Chico Art Festival, which showcases local artists.

2. Oroville:

Oroville, the county seat of Butte County, is a historic city that played a significant role in the California Gold Rush. Located along the banks of the Feather River, Oroville is known for its rich history, including the Chinese Temple, which dates back to 1863 and offers a glimpse into the lives of Chinese immigrants during the Gold Rush. The city is also home to the Feather River Fish Hatchery, where visitors can watch the migration of salmon and steelhead. With its proximity to Lake Oroville, Oroville is a hub for outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, and hiking.

3. Paradise:

Situated in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Paradise was known for its scenic beauty and tight-knit community before it was tragically impacted by the 2018 Camp Fire. While the fire devastated much of the town, the community has shown incredible resilience, and efforts to rebuild Paradise are ongoing. The town’s beautiful surroundings, including nearby Magalia and the Gold Nugget Museum, continue to attract visitors interested in learning about the area’s Gold Rush history and experiencing its natural beauty.

4. Gridley:

Located in the southern part of Butte County, Gridley is a small agricultural town known for its friendly community and farming traditions. The town is surrounded by orchards and rice fields, reflecting the county’s agricultural heritage. Gridley hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Butte County Fair and local farmers’ markets.

5. Biggs:

A tiny, rural town located near Gridley, Biggs is known for its agricultural roots and small-town charm. Surrounded by farmlands, the town offers a quiet and peaceful environment, with a close-knit community that celebrates local traditions and farming heritage.