5 Table Mountain Blvd
Oroville, CA

The Feather River is the principal tributary to the Sacramento River, and the main stem of the river begins in Lake Oroville. There, the Feather River's four long tributary forks join together—the South Fork, Wild and Scenic Middle Fork, North Fork, and West Branch Feather Rivers. With so many waterways, the Feather River is full of water recreation opportunities, and kayaking is one of the best ways to experience this Northern California gem!

The Feather River is the principal tributary to the Sacramento River, and the main stem of the river begins in Lake Oroville. There, the Feather River's four long tributary forks join together—the South Fork, Wild and Scenic Middle Fork, North Fork, and West Branch Feather Rivers.

You can also launch at the Feather River Fish Hatchery and end at Riverbend Park on your own any time time of year! From the hatchery, make your day a wildlife-seeking adventure by paddling the Feather River 7.3 miles downstream to the Thermalito Afterbay outlet or 8.7 miles to the Vance Avenue parking area in the Oroville Wildlife Area. The ultimate Feather River experience is to kayak 17 beautiful miles from the Feather River Fish Hatchery to the Gridley boat ramp. Kayakers seeking a big river experience can also explore the Sacramento River near Chico. Salmon and steelhead populate Lake Oroville, the Thermalito Forebay, and the Thermalito Afterbay, too, for those wanting to paddle on flat water.

2950 Grand Ave
Oroville, CA

While not technically part of the Feather River, the Thermalito North and South Forebays are filled with its waters, and a truly family-friendly and appropriate for even the most novice of paddlers.

The river was designated as one of the original eight wild and scenic rivers by Congress, and is known throughout the West as one of the premiere whitewater descents in the state. Experienced whitewater kayakers take 3 to 4 days for the self-supported trip.

Butte County, CA

Recreation high-water flows are generally held four weekends a year in June, July, August, and September along the Rock Creek Reach (check for the latest updates for the annual flow dates). During these periods, in which water flows are increased to 700-800 cubic feet per second (cfs) (normal range for the season is 150 cfs), the part of the North Fork contains Class III, IV, and V rapids. The Rock Creek Reach is the 8.3-mile portion of the North Fork of the Feather River in the Plumas National Forest between PG&E’s Rock Creek dam and the Rock Creek powerhouse near Storrie.

Get on the water and explore this Northern California gem.