Irvine Finch Access Campground
04 reviewsIrvine Finch Access Campground
$0.00 - $0.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No detailed fee structure available. A self-serve fee mechanism is mentioned.
About this campground
Nestled within the stunning Bidwell-Sacramento River State Park, this riverside campground serves as your gateway to endless water adventures. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn for a peaceful fishing expedition, paddling a canoe through gentle currents, or floating lazily downstream on a summer afternoon, the Sacramento River beckons with its timeless allure. The well-maintained launch ramp and spacious parking area make it easy to transition from arrival to adventure in minutes.
Irvine Finch Access Campground has basic en-route campsites with a focus on accommodating boating and river recreation activities.
Historical SignificanceThis campground stands as a living testament to successful conservation efforts along the Sacramento River. Here, dedicated habitat restoration projects have breathed new life into the landscape, creating a sanctuary that showcases one of California's most endangered ecosystems. As you explore, you're witnessing the careful preservation of the Sacramento River's vanishing riparian habitat—a rare glimpse into what much of California's Central Valley once looked like before development transformed the region.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of California's inviting climate throughout the year. Warm spring days invite early-season explorers, while summer brings perfect conditions for water activities and evening campfires. As autumn paints the riverside foliage in golden hues, cooler temperatures create ideal hiking weather. Winter offers its own quiet charm with crisp, peaceful days. Smart campers know that layered clothing is the key to comfort here, allowing you to adapt as morning mist gives way to sunny afternoons.
ElevationSet at a gentle riverside elevation that provides easy access to both water activities and terrestrial adventures, the campground offers comfortable camping conditions year-round.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a cathedral of nature where ancient oaks spread their mighty branches overhead, creating a living canopy alongside towering cottonwoods. This preserved slice of Sacramento River riparian paradise offers more than just shade—it's a thriving ecosystem where elderberry bushes heavy with fruit attract songbirds, wild grapevines create natural arbors, and the rich understory shelters an impressive array of wildlife. From the morning chorus of birds to the evening rustle of creatures beginning their nocturnal adventures, every moment here connects you with California's wild heart.
Geological RegionThe campground occupies a prime location within the Sacramento River's precious riparian corridor, where centuries of seasonal flooding have created rich, fertile soils that support a remarkable diversity of life. Massive valley oaks, some centuries old, stand sentinel alongside cottonwoods that whisper in the river breeze. Native elderberry shrubs, wild grape tangles, and a complex understory create multiple habitat layers that support everything from tiny tree frogs to majestic herons. This geological gift—where river meets land—has created one of California's most biodiverse and beautiful camping destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault restroom facilities and parking accommodate vehicles pulling trailers, making the area partly accessible.
Sites SizeSite size details are not explicitly provided.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy details for individual sites are not mentioned.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No group site details provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutFacilities include a parking lot and launch ramp for water activities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round as indicated.
Walk-in AvailabilityMention of self-serve fee and walk-up access, but specific details were not provided.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Irvine Finch Access Campground is known for its emphasis on water-related activities like boating, fishing, and tubing, as well as wildlife observation.
FishingFishing opportunities abound, especially for salmon, steelhead, and shad along the Sacramento River. The area is popular among anglers.
SwimmingVisitors enjoy swimming in designated areas along the Sacramento River.
BoatingBoating, canoeing, and tubing down the Sacramento River are highly popular activities. Irvine Finch provides a boat launch and parking for easy access.
Wildlife viewingThe riparian environment supports diverse wildlife, including river otters, herons, and turtles. Visitors can enjoy observing nature's inhabitants in this habitat.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
General hazardsTubing activity may involve river currents; user reviews noted challenges with tube rentals.
Active alertsNone mentioned.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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Precipitation Trends
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Weather Summaries
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Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are likely in Chico, including hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingInformation about trash and recycling facilities is not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to the Sacramento River for boating, fishing, and tubing.
Common complaints“Had fun tubing down the river. Tube rental was a nightmare.”
HostReviews from users praised the hosts Jim and Ceri as being 'amazing' and going 'above and beyond.' Another review states, 'Love the safe environment and great park host.'
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Chico, take West Sacramento Ave. 5 miles until it intersects with River Road. Big Chico Creek is to the left, Indian Fishery straight ahead and Pine Creek is to the right. Irvine Finch River Access is located just west of the Hwy. 32 Sacramento River Bridge. From I-5 take the Highway 32 exit at Orland. Irvine Finch River Access is just East of Hamilton City.
Accessible via paved roads from Hwy. 32 and River Road. No seasonal closures or challenging terrain are mentioned.Nearby places
Chico (approximately 5 miles away), Hamilton City (close proximity), Orland (near Hwy. 32 exit).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Chico, approximately 5 miles away, where groceries, fuel, and camping essentials can be purchased.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Irvine Finch Access Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User feedback highlights the campground's convenient river access and friendly hosts, but some minor issues like difficulties with tube rentals are noted.
Review Summaries
Visitors frequently praise the boat launch, convenient parking, and welcoming park hosts.
A specific user noted issues with tube rentals being a 'nightmare.'
Future campers should bring extra supplies, as amenities are basic. Utilizing the self-serve fee station may require preparation.
Summer months appear to be the most popular, with tubing and water activities drawing visitors. Cooler months may be less ideal due to reduced river activity.
1. 'Had fun tubing down the river. Tube rental was a nightmare.' 2. 'Jim and Ceri are amazing hosts and go above and beyond to make your experience here a cut above the rest.' 3. 'Love the safe...
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No specific site numbers were mentioned in user reviews.
Accessible vault restrooms and trailer parking are noted, making it partly accommodating for those with mobility challenges.
Pets are allowed at the campground, making it a suitable location for pet owners.
Last updated July 20, 2025