Located in Northern California’s verdant forests, McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is a tranquil haven with breathtaking scenery and exciting activities just waiting to be explored.
Burney Falls, a flowing beauty that Theodore Roosevelt reportedly called “the eighth wonder of the world,” is located on this 910-acre refuge about an hour northeast of Redding. It is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the state. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a budding photographer, or just someone in search of inner peace, this park provides a sanctuary amid the beauty of nature.
Burney Falls is the first thing that catches your eye as soon as you reach the overlook. The subterranean springs that supply the waterfall ensure that it continues to flow throughout the year, even in the dry summers of California, as it plunges 129 feet into a crystal pool below. Water doesn’t merely pour over the side of the cliff; it seeps through porous volcanic rock, forming a glistening curtain that glistens in the sun. This structure is what makes it stand out. A gentle mist wafts up from the base, enticing guests to stay for a while.
Everyone can enjoy this spectacle thanks to the short, paved trail that leads from the parking area to the overlook. You can get a better look by going down the half-mile loop route to the lowest pool. Amid the moist, refreshing air of the falls, the pungent aroma of the tall ponderosa pines wafts through the air as the trail winds its way. When you reach the bottom, your senses will be flooded with a sensory symphony that will shut out all the noise and technology of the modern world.
The park has more to offer than just Burney Falls, though. Not far away, shimmers the 12-mile reservoir known as Lake Britton. Its placid waters are perfect for paddleboarders, kayakers, and fishermen looking to reel in some trout or bass. Paddle across the lake on a rented kayak or your own, taking in the scenery of rolling hills covered in trees and, on clear days, Mount Shasta in the distance.
The park’s network of trails is a peaceful paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s rocky beauty is showcased along the Pacific Crest Trail, a famed 2,650-mile trail that runs from Mexico to Canada. The 2.5-mile Headwaters Trail is a good option for those looking for a shorter hike; it winds its way through mossy woodlands and beside trickling streams on its way to the springs that supply Burney Creek. Watch out for wildlife—this area is home to black-tailed deer, ospreys, and even the rare black bear.
The Ultimate Camping Haven
An evening spent under the sky enhances a visit to McArthur-Burney. In the park’s campsite, you’ll find 102 spots, ranging from those ideal for tents under the pines to those that are suitable for RVs and have hookups. Perfect for s’mores making as the night falls, each campsite has its own fire pit and picnic table. You can also rent cabins, which provide a more rustic setting with amenities like bunk beds and views of the lake. Parents and children alike will be rushing to reserve this getaway for the summer weekends.
You may enjoy a sunrise paddle or a refreshing swim in Lake Britton every morning because the camping is so close to the water. When the sun goes down and the city lights go out, you can see the stars, which is one of the reasons this area of California feels so remote.
A Getaway Anytime of Year
In every season, McArthur-Burney Falls is a sight to behold. As the seasons change, hikers can enjoy the sights and sounds of wildflowers like lupine and Indian paintbrush in the spring and the warmth of summer days perfect for swimming and boating. Cooler weather, ideal for hiking, and a kaleidoscope of reds and golds dot the park in the fall. The falls, encircled by snow-covered trees, take on an otherworldly look in the winter, and the quiet is just what you need after the throng have gone.
Helpful Hints for Your Trip
The park is accessible via Highway 89 and is situated an hour and a half east of Redding. A multiple day trip of exploring this natural beauty is well worth the $10 admission charge per vehicle.
The Significance of McArthur-Burney
The tranquility of McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park is a welcome respite from the hectic pace of modern life. The opportunity to reestablish a connection with nature and with oneself is more valuable than any aesthetic appreciation of the falls or forest. Though Roosevelt may have been exaggerating, you may find yourself agreeing with him after standing before Burney Falls, breathing in its mist and listening to its song: this is a wonder worth exploring.