//
City in California, United States
Photo: Podruznik at English Wikipedia, Public domain via Wikimedia Commons
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.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The original orange tree brought to California 1856 which is still bearing fruit to this day despite a near fatal frost in 1998.
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.
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.
A massive granite outcropping that sits in the mountains above town. It makes for an excellent morning hike with impressive views from the top.
A great day hike for those wishing to see one of the highest waterfalls in the United States with a drop of 410 ft. Great spot in the middle of the hike to see a massive ladybug migration.
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.
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.
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.
One of the best burgers around and a much better option than all the fast food joints that line Oro Dam Blvd.
Mexican food for people who don't like Mexican food. It's fine, but it's not amazing.
Opened in 1912 and run by Chinese ever since. It's the best Chinese food option in town.
A true dive bar in town with dim lighting and the regulars. If you want the Oroville local bar experience, this is it.
Drinkable, but not the most notable.
More mid range in quality.
Room amenities include refrigerators and microwaves. Property amenities include free parking for cars, trucks and RVs, free breakfast, free USA Today newspaper, free Wi-Fi, outdoor pool and 24-hour front desk.
The newest hotel in town, located on one of the main boulevards, close to the highway.
It might seem odd to stay at a casino in such a small town, but it's one of the nicer hotels in town, especially if you avoid the rather dreary casino.
A casino hotel that's more classy and resembles an upscale hunting lodge. More removed from the casino so that you can stay there separately of the gambling sadness, with a buffet/brewpub and pool.
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.
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.
By car
You will most likely need a car once arriving in Oroville, so it is better to arrive with your own first. Oroville straddles Highway 70 and has four exits off this main thoroughfare.
By train
During Gold Rush times, there were several trains a day down to Sacramento and San Francisco. Today, there is no direct service.
The public transportation in Oroville is not amazing, but strides have been made to have a more reliable system. The B-Line covers not only the core of the town, but also has hourly connections to neighboring towns.
Read in the guideChoose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Sacramento · International · SMF
Loading places around the airport…
Articles and travel topics about Oroville (California) and United States.
Travel tipsFind the cheapest countries to fly to from the US and UK in 2026. Compare realistic round-trip flight deals, budget airlines, and prime booking windows.
8 min read
Travel tipsFind the best time to visit Hawaii in 2026. Compare whale seasons, big-wave surf, dry shoulder months, hotel rates, and island microclimates.
8 min read
InspirationDiscover the best places to visit in April. Compare Dutch tulip fields, Thailand's Songkran water festival, Roman spring gardens, and cherry blossoms.
6 min read
Travel tipsA practical guide to travelling with medication and refrigerated drugs like insulin and GLP-1s. Learn airline rules, customs papers, and cooling tips.
7 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.