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There are so many beautiful places to visit in California and this is definitely one of them. McArthur Burney Falls aka Burney Falls is a must-see waterfall State Park in Northern California, such a breathtakingly beautiful place you will absolutely LOVE. Not only is it an amazing attraction but it is a great place to go camping and enjoy all the activities the park has to offer!
McArthur Burney Falls State Park
McArthur Burney Falls State Park includes multiple hiking trails, a 129-foot waterfall centerpiece, a lake for fishing or water sports, barbequing, camping including cabins, and a general store.
The best time to go would definitely be spring and summer because the water is extremely cold, 42 degrees cold! When you hike down the hill of rocks down to the waterfall pool, it tends to be a bit windy and very cold because of the daily flow of 100 million gallons of water cascading down the mountain, so bring a light sweater!
What to bring
- Kafka Kool Tie to keep cool. I never go on a sunny hike without it! It has a cooling effect that lasts from 2-3 days!
- Water Shoes – Let your personality shine through with all the different types of styles, patterns, and colors
- Backpack– I love my Patagonia backpack not so big, not so small, just the perfect size! Check out this similar one I found.
- Stainless Steel Water Bottle – This one is my absolute favorite, keeps the water as cold as you first put it in the bottle for all-day hydration.
- Soap & Sanitizer is a MUST. These travel ones are perfect for reuse and to attach to your backpack or purse for travel.
What you should know
Arrive early because you are not allowed to park outside on the highway and may risk getting a ticket or towed. If they run out of parking spaces you may also be directed to park at the lake which is a little over a mile away and you will have to walk on the winding road, you will exhaust yourself before even the fun begins!
I would walk down to the waterfalls first and take all the photos you want before you do the trail and get your sweat on!
During the summertime make sure to bring water and stay well hydrated and cool.
Hang out at the waterfalls pool area and soak in the beauty! Pictures definitely do not do this place justice of how grand it really is when you are at the bottom of the falls.
Be very careful while going down the hill of rocks to avoid falls or a sprained ankle.
For all my fellow dog lovers: our furry members are not allowed on this trail. They are only allowed in the parking lot, paved roadway, and campgrounds.
If you are feeling really daring and adventurous, go during the summer so you can jump in the waterfall pool for a really refreshing plunge!
Make sure to take water shoes because the water is so cold and the rocks are slippery!
Falls Loop Trail
The most popular hiking trail is the Burney Falls Loop Trail which is a family-friendly trail for all ages and skill levels. There are two bridges, a beautiful side view of the falls and it loops around back to the entrance of the waterfall and is only about a mile long.
Camping
Campsites and Cabins are available to book up to six months in advance that can be reserved online: https://www.reservecalifornia.com/CaliforniaWebHome/
Due to the popularity and a place that may be on everyone’s bucket list, I would make reservations with as much lead time as possible. Spaces fill up quickly!
Lake Britton
About a mile away from the majestic falls is a road down the mountain that leads to Lake Britton surrounded by beautiful tall Redwood trees as far as the eyes can see.
You can enjoy a nice sunny day on the water surrounded by beautiful green Redwood trees. The park offers kayak, canoe, pedal boats, and pontoon boat rentals for half or a full day.
Picnic Area
Just across the lake is an area full of picnic tables and pedestal park barbecue grills for your cooking needs! There are also some at the entrance near the waterfalls but I found it better to barbecue near the lake as there were a lot more surrounding trees which meant there was a lot more shade to go around.
I hope this post sparks your interest in visiting this beautiful park! I loved it so much I have gone about five times in just a year and it never gets old! If you have the time for another awesome adventure in the area check out my post on the Lake Shasta Caverns!!
I can’t wait to hear all about your visit and how you enjoyed your visit/stay. Post in the comments below, I would love to hear all about it! <3
