MCARTHUR-BURNEY FALLS MEMORIAL STATE PARK
The park is within the Cascade Range and Modoc Plateau natural region, with 910 acres of forest and five miles of streamside and lake shoreline, including a portion of Lake Britton.
The park's centerpiece is the 129-foot Burney Falls, which is not the highest or largest waterfall in the state, but possibly the most beautiful. Additional water comes from springs, joining to create a mist-filled basin. Burney Creek originates from the park's underground springs and flows to Lake Britton, getting larger along the way to the majestic falls.
The park's landscape was created by volcanic activity as well as erosion from weather and streams. This volcanic region is surrounded by mountain peaks and is covered by black volcanic rock, or basalt. Created over a million years ago, the layered, porous basalt retains rainwater and snow melt, which forms a large underground reservoir.
Within the park, the water emerges as springs at and above Burney Falls, where it flows at 100 million gallons every day.
Burney Falls was named after pioneer settler Samuel Burney who lived in the area in the 1850s. The McArthurs were pioneer settlers who arrived in the late 1800s. Descendants were responsible for saving the waterfall and nearby land from development. They bought the property and gave it to the state as a gift in the 1920s.
The park was named after pioneer settlers Samuel Burney and John McArthur. The 910-acre area became a state park in 1926. It's home to the second oldest campground in the California State Parks system.
The centerpiece of this site is its waterfall - Burney Falls, which flows all year round due to underground springs feeding it. In fact, President Theodore Roosevelt once called these falls "the Eighth Wonder of the World."
In addition to camping and hiking opportunities provided by Pacific Crest Trail running through it, visitors can also enjoy fishing at Lake Britton within its boundaries.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
- Burney Falls Campground: Offers 128 sites for tents and RVs with picnic tables, fire rings, restrooms and showers.
- Pioneer Campground: Provides 24 campsites ideal for groups or large families equipped with BBQ grills.
- Cabin Rentals: Features one-room cabins that sleep up to four people; includes heating system but no kitchen facilities.
- Equestrian Camping Area: Allows horse camping featuring corrals, water troughs and trails suitable for riding horses.
- RV Hookups Sites: Equipped with full hook-ups including electricity, water supply & sewage disposal facility.
Swimming is not allowed at the base of Burney Falls due to strong currents and environmental concerns. The park offers a designated swimming area at Lake Britton, accessible by foot or car from within the park. Life jackets are recommended for all swimmers; rentals available during summer months. Swimming conditions vary with weather; always check local advisories before entering water.
Visitors can enjoy fishing in the park's Lake Britton, known for its populations of bass, catfish, and panfish. The clear waters also host rainbow trout; anglers may fish from shore or by boat. Fly-fishing is popular along Burney Creek both above and below the falls area. Fishing licenses are required for those 16 years of age and older.
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