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Locrawl

Oroville

Oroville is a small town in the Sierra Nevada foothills of Northern California. With a population in the greater urban area of 40,000, it is the seat of Butte County. A relaxed place, it boasts a massive dam that has created the man made Lake Oroville. There are excellent outdoor activities including boating, hiking, biking, and fishing.

See
8
Do
5
Eat
3
Drink
3
Buy
2

21 places

  1. See

    Bidwell Bar Bridge

    Original

    The Bidwell Bar Bridge is the first steel suspension bridge built in California. It was relocated to its current location in 1965 to avoid inundation by the rising water of Lake Oroville.

    Free

  2. See

    Cherokee Museum & Ghost Town

    What was once a boom town during the mining days, this is a small ghost town with several structures you can walk through from the road including what was the Wells Fargo Bank. There is also a small museum that has varying opening hours. There are a few scattered places where people still live, so tread carefully.

  3. See

    Chinese Temple

    Built in 1863, this temple served the needs of all the Chinese north of Sacramento. Now it is a museum open to the public showing the history of the Chinese in the area as well as artifacts from the days when the temple was in full service.

    Daily: Noon-4PMAdults: $3

  4. Do

    Feather Falls

    A great day hike for those wishing to see one of the highest waterfalls in the United States with a drop of. Great spot in the middle of the hike to see a massive ladybug migration.

    Free

  5. See

    Ishi Emergence Spot

    The location where Ishi, the last Native American to live in the wild came in to contact with European Americans in 1911 which is mainly just a plaque marking the spot. Much more can be found at the Lake Oroville Visitor Center.

    Free

  6. See

    Lake Oroville Visitor Center

    Outside of the town, this state-run visitor center offers a splendid observation of the town and the history of the construction of the lake and the Indian tribes that were in the area.

    Free

  7. See

    Mother Orange Tree

    The original orange tree brought to California 1856 which is still bearing fruit to this day despite a near fatal frost in 1998.

    Free

  8. See

    Oroville Dam

    Billed as the largest earth-filled dam in the world, it is the tallest dam in the United States at 230m/770ft, and the top of the dam spans 2,110m/6,920ft. The view over the Sacramento Valley is stunning, especially after a good rainstorm. For security reasons, you can't park directly on the top of the dam. There are also quite impressive tours under the dam showing the massive hydroelectric turbines, although the hours and offer of these tours are unpredictable.

    Free

  9. See

    Pioneer History Museum

    Opened in 1932, this museum houses a very large collection of tools and other historical items used by people in the Gold Rush. A must-see for anyone who has any interest in Gold Rush history.

    Fri-Sun: Noon-4PMAdults: $3

  10. Do

    Table Mountain

    While this area can be visited year round, it is best seen in the Spring when the large, flat field on the plateau of this mountain are full of endless wildflowers. Additionally, there are excellent waterfalls to hike to and be seen such as Ravine and Phantom Falls. Those interested in preparing can read up on these hikes as well as read the book, "Wildflowers of Table Mountain" by Mackey & Bills.

    Free

  11. Do Not mapped

    Bald Rock

    A massive granite outcropping that sits in the mountains above town. It makes for an excellent morning hike with impressive views from the top.

    Free

  12. Eat Not mapped

    Boss Burger

    One of the best burgers around and a much better option than all the fast food joints that line Oro Dam Blvd.

  13. Do Not mapped

    Green Line Trail

    A contiguous route running from the center of town up to the dam with a number of options along the way. It's for those wishing to make longer bike rides around the area and enjoy the scenery with a very easy to follow green line to mark the path.

    Free

  14. Drink Not mapped

    Keg Room

    A true dive bar in town with dim lighting and the regulars. If you want the Oroville local bar experience, this is it.

  15. Do Not mapped

    Lake Oroville State Recreation Area

    The main attraction of Oroville and a huge destination for boating and fishing. Boats can also be rented from Bidwell Marina and taken far upstream to the forks of the river where there are usually waterfalls depending on the year.

  16. Eat Not mapped

    Papacito's

    Mexican food for people who don't like Mexican food. It's fine, but it's not amazing.

  17. Buy Not mapped

    Raley's

    The best supermarket in the area with a large selection of products. especially good for those looking to go camping up in the mountains and needing to stock up on supplies for the trip.

  18. Eat Not mapped

    Tong Fong Low

    Opened in 1912 and run by Chinese ever since. It's the best Chinese food option in town.

  19. Buy Not mapped

    Wagon Wheel Market

    While the groceries are much higher-priced than in town, it's hands down the best butcher in town. If you want meat for a BBQ, this is the place to go. Also excellent beef jerky that they cut and make.

  20. Drink Not mapped

    Grey Fox Vineyards

    Drinkable, but not the most notable.

  21. Drink Not mapped

    Long Creek Winery

    More mid range in quality.