Prepare to be mesmerized by one of California’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Visit McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, located just north of Burney in Shasta County. At the heart of this 910-acre gem lies Burney Falls—a 129-foot perennial cascade known as “the Eighth Wonder of the World”—framed by basalt cliffs, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters fed by spring springs.
What Makes McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Unique
Burney Falls stands out as a perennial waterfall. Underground springs feed approximately 100 million gallons per day. This produces a cool mist and rainbows at its base. As California’s second-oldest state park—created in 1926—the park intertwines geological heritage, volcanic landscapes, and a legacy of conservation by the McArthur family California State Parks.
Top Activities & Amenities
? Hiking Trails
Explore around five miles of forested trails, including the Falls Loop Trail, Headwaters Loop, and Burney Creek Trail. Portions of the Pacific Crest Trail even traverse the park. Note: some creekside trails remain closed due to erosion issues—check current maps before heading out.
? Fishing, Swimming & Boating
Burney Creek is popular for cold-water trout fly-fishing below the falls; Lake Britton beside the park features catch-and-release trout and bass fishing, plus canoe, kayak, motorboat and paddleboat access via the marina.
?️ Camping, Cabins & Group Sites
The park offers 102 campsites across Pioneer and Rim Campgrounds, accommodating tents, RVs (up to 32 ft), and a limited number of cabins—both rustic and one- or two-room units with propane heat but no electricity or plumbing (). Facilities include flush toilets, coin-op showers, drinking water, fire rings, picnic tables, a dump station, and firewood for sale.
?️ Visitor Center, General Store & Marina
The Visitor Center houses interpretive exhibits, maps and park info, while the general store offers snacks, supplies, firewood, and kayak/hybrid boat rentals. The marina facilitates boat launches and rentals on Lake Britton.
? Wildlife Viewing & Interpretive Programs
Raft through lush forests and volcanic formations where deer, Steller’s jays, squirrels, woodpeckers, and occasional black bears roam. Spring and summer bring interpretive specialists, live campfire workshops, wildflower walks, and Heritage Day events highlighting late-19th-century crafts.
? Amenities & Accessibility
The park includes restrooms, showers, picnic areas, playground, BBQ grills, benches, water fountains, and parking lots. RV dump station and recycling center available. Vehicle length is limited to under 32 feet and oversized vehicles park at Lake Britton lot on weekends ().
Visitor Tips
- Fees & Parking: Day-use is $10/vehicle; camping $35/night plus $10 for extra vehicle ().
- Trail Closures: Creekside trails may remain closed—verify before visiting and stay off eroded paths.
- Cabin Reservations: Book cabins early via ReserveCalifornia—demand is high in summer.
- Pets: Not allowed on falls trails or Lake Britton beach—leave pets at home for safety and habitat protection.
- Water Safety: Swimming is permitted, but the falls basin and lake waters are icy (≈42°F); no lifeguards are on duty.
- Connectivity: Little to no cell coverage—Wi-Fi is available only near Visitor Center.
- Overtourism Caution: High visitor numbers can cause highway parking and safety risks—avoid roadside stops; plan morning visits to beat crowds.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
For a truly serene experience, arrive at first light. If possible, come before dawn. Witness the falls at sunrise with mist and rainbows shimmering in near solitude. Autumn offers vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures, perfect for photography and outdoor activity. Prefer solitude? Leave Saturday behind—visit on a weekday to secure easy parking and peaceful hikes. Finally, after exploring the grand falls, follow the lakeside trail to the “Stand By Me” railroad trestle—an unexpected cinematic moment hidden within this rugged landscape.