McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

How to Get There

From Redding, CA (65 mi): Take CA-299 E toward Burney, then turn left onto CA-89 N and continue for 6 miles; the park entrance is on the left, marked by signage for McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park.

Overview

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park in northern California, about 6 miles north of Burney, is famed for the 129-foot Burney Falls, a mist-filled waterfall fed by underground springs that release about 100 million gallons of water a day, creating one of the state’s most beautiful waterfalls. It is California’s second-oldest state park, established after descendants of the McArthur family bought the property and gave it to the state in the 1920s, and the falls were designated a National Natural Landmark in 1984. The park covers about 910 acres with camping, fishing, swimming and boating on Lake Britton, and hiking that includes a section of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Access

The park is about 65 miles northeast of Redding, on Highway 89 about 6 miles north of its junction with Highway 299 near Burney. From Redding, take Highway 299 east to Highway 89 north, and the entrance is on the left. Nearly all visitors arrive by car, and there is no public transportation. From mid-May to late September, day-use reservations are required on Fridays through Sundays and holidays, so check State Parks before you go. Walk-in and bike-in visitors enter free.

Seasons

Spring through fall is the best time to visit, when the roads, trails and facilities are fully open. Summer is warm and the busiest season for swimming and boating on Lake Britton, and fall brings quieter days. Winter is cold, access can be limited by ice, and the cabins are closed. The entrance kiosk is closed in the off-season, so payment is made at the automatic payment machine near the visitor center. The falls flow year-round because they are fed by springs.

Things to Do

Visit One of California's Most Spectacular Waterfalls

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is home to Burney Falls, one of the most famous waterfalls in California. Often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World" by President Theodore Roosevelt, the 129-foot waterfall is renowned for its year-round flow, fed by underground springs that emerge directly from the cliff face, creating a stunning curtain of water.

Experience Burney Falls Up Close

The park's signature attraction is Burney Falls, where visitors can enjoy spectacular viewpoints from above and below the falls. The waterfall produces nearly 100 million gallons of water daily, and the mist-filled basin creates excellent opportunities for photography, sightseeing, and enjoying the cool mountain environment.

Explore Lake Britton

Lake Britton offers opportunities for boating, fishing, kayaking, swimming, and picnicking. Surrounded by forested landscapes and volcanic terrain, the lake provides a beautiful setting for outdoor recreation and family activities.

Discover Volcanic Landscapes and Forest Habitats

The park's natural features include volcanic formations, dense forests, streams, and mountain scenery. Visitors can experience a variety of ecosystems while learning about the geology that shaped this unique region of Northern California.

Enjoy Camping and Outdoor Recreation

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park offers a popular campground with easy access to hiking trails, waterfalls, and Lake Britton. Camping, wildlife viewing, fishing, and nature photography are among the most popular activities throughout the park.

Explore the Pacific Crest Trail

A section of the famous Pacific Crest Trail passes through the park, attracting long-distance hikers and visitors interested in experiencing part of one of America's most iconic hiking routes.

Top Trails

Burney Falls Loop Trail

Length: Approximately 1.2 miles loop
Elevation Gain: Moderate descent and ascent
Difficulty: Easy

This popular trail descends from the overlook to the base of Burney Falls and circles through lush forest scenery. Visitors enjoy close-up views of the waterfall, spring-fed streams, and the dramatic canyon environment.

Pioneer Cemetery Trail

Length: Approximately 2 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy

This peaceful trail leads to a historic cemetery and passes through forested areas that highlight the region's natural beauty and cultural history.

Pacific Crest Trail Segment

Length: Varies
Elevation Gain: Moderate
Difficulty: Moderate

Visitors can hike portions of the Pacific Crest Trail that pass through the park and surrounding forest lands, offering opportunities to experience scenic mountain landscapes and long-distance hiking routes.

Lake Britton Shoreline Trail

Length: Approximately 2 to 3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy

This scenic trail follows portions of Lake Britton's shoreline and provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing access, photography, and relaxing walks beside the water.

Visitor Centers

The park’s visitor center is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm and has exhibits and trail information. Interpretive programs, including guided hikes, are offered Wednesday through Sunday from 11am to 4pm. The park store also serves as a general delivery mailing address for Pacific Crest Trail hikers. For information, call the park at (530) 335-2777.

Camping and Lodging

The park has a campground with tent, RV, hike-and-bike and remote sites, and sites are generally first-come, first-served from Labor Day to mid-May. Cabins and tent cabins are also available through concessionaires, but the cabins are closed in winter. Motels and restaurants are in Burney (about 6 miles) and Fall River Mills, and a larger selection of hotels is in Redding (about 65 miles). Because camping is popular in summer, reserve early.

Sources: California State Parks official McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park information, including details on Burney Falls, Lake Britton, hiking trails, camping facilities, fishing opportunities, and visitor amenities. https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=455https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=455
Additional information verified through California State Parks and regional visitor resources covering the Burney Falls Loop Trail, Pacific Crest Trail access, volcanic geology, recreational opportunities, and natural features within McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. https://www.visitcalifornia.com/places-to-visit/burney-falls/https://www.visitcalifornia.com/places-to-visit/burney-falls/

This article uses material from the Wikipedia article "McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park", which is released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0. Additional information from California State Parks.