Lake Oroville

Lake Oroville is a massive reservoir formed by the Oroville Dam impounding the Feather River, located in Butte County, northern California. The lake is situated within the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, in the western foothills of the Sierra Nevada.

Known as the second-largest reservoir in California, Lake Oroville is a vital part of the California State Water Project. It serves multiple purposes including storing water, providing flood control, recreation, and freshwater releases to help control the salinity intrusion into the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta. The lake is also important for protecting fish and wildlife in the area.

Here are some interesting facts about Lake Oroville:

• Completed in 1968, Oroville Dam is the tallest dam in the United States, measuring over 770 feet high and 6,920 feet across. It was the largest earth-fill dam in the world until the Aswan High Dam was built in Egypt.
• The dam houses the Edward Hyatt Powerplant, an underground hydro-electric plant that was completed in 1967. The Edward Hyatt Powerplant has six generators with a maximum generating capacity of 819 MW.
• Lake Oroville has 167 miles of shoreline, providing plenty of secluded coves and beaches for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
• The lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, waterskiing, paddle boarding and kayaking.
• The upper arm of the reservoir offers stunning views of 410-foot Feather Falls.

If you’re looking for an outdoor recreation destination in Northern California, Lake Oroville State Recreation Area is a great option.