Bidwell Canyon Campground
4.1117 reviews801 Bidwell Canyon Road (off Arroyo Drive), Oroville, CA 95966
Bidwell Canyon Campground
$45.00 - $45.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$45.00
Hookup Site Fee$45.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Nightly fee for standard campsites with full hookups is $45. Additional reservation fee of $8.25 applies.
About this campground
Nestled along the sun-drenched southern shores of Lake Oroville, Bidwell Canyon Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 75 thoughtfully designed sites ready to accommodate everything from cozy tents to luxury RVs. Each site comes complete with full hookups, ensuring modern comfort meets natural splendor. As part of the renowned Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, this gem combines pristine facilities with the convenience of a full-service marina just moments away. Whether you're seeking a weekend escape or an extended lakeside retreat, the campground's shaded sanctuaries and meticulous maintenance create the perfect basecamp for your California adventure.
Bidwell Canyon Campground offers versatile camping options suitable for RVs and tents. Full hookup sites make it RV-friendly.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with stories spanning millennia. Long before the first tent was pitched here, the Northwest Maidu people called this region home, their traditions woven into the very fabric of the land. The rushing waters of the Feather River later drew fortune-seekers during California's legendary gold rush, forever changing the area's destiny. Today, visitors can marvel at Lake Oroville itself – a testament to human engineering created by the Oroville Dam, standing proud as the tallest earth-filled dam in the United States. Every sunrise over the lake connects campers to this remarkable tapestry of indigenous heritage, gold rush dreams, and modern innovation.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of California's Mediterranean climate at Bidwell Canyon, where each season paints the landscape in its own unique palette. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-soaked paradise, with temperatures dancing between 80 and 100°F – perfect for endless days on the water. Spring and fall bring gentle breezes and comfortable temperatures ideal for hiking and exploration, while winter offers a peaceful retreat with crisp mornings hovering between 30 and 50°F. The ever-changing conditions make layered clothing your best companion throughout the year, allowing you to adapt from cool mornings to warm afternoons with ease.
Natural Features and SceneryA living canopy of majestic oaks and towering pines creates nature's own cathedral above Bidwell Canyon Campground, offering blessed shade during warm summer days and a rustling symphony with every breeze. From your campsite, catch glimpses of Lake Oroville's sapphire waters sparkling through the trees, inviting you to explore its 167 miles of shoreline. Early risers are often rewarded with visits from graceful deer picking their way through the morning mist, while a diverse chorus of native birds provides the soundtrack to your stay. This harmonious blend of forest and lake creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty that transforms with each passing hour.
Geological RegionDiscover camping in the heart of northern California's chaparral-oak-pine belt, where the dramatic landscape tells the story of the mother-lode country's geological past. Perched near the historic Feather River, Bidwell Canyon sits at the intersection of diverse ecosystems that have been shaped by millions of years of natural forces. This unique positioning creates a fascinating blend of vegetation zones, from drought-resistant chaparral to stately pines, offering campers an authentic taste of California's remarkable biodiversity. The surrounding hills and canyons showcase the region's complex geological heritage, making every trail a journey through time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has three accessible campsites (#30, #65, and #75) with nearby accessible restrooms and showers. Additionally, the Wyke Island Trail and Bidwell Canyon Bike Trail provide accessible recreational opportunities.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate trailers up to 31 feet and RVs up to 40 feet. Individual campsites have dimensions suitable for large RVs and standard vehicles.
Sites PrivacySites offer some privacy with partial shade from trees. Specific details about site spacing or vegetation cover are not provided.
Total Campsites75 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites near the lakeside for best views. Accessible sites include #30, #65, and #75.
Best CampsitesUser reviews mention accessible sites such as #30, #65, and #75 are popular for their proximity to restrooms and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 14 days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests per site
Groups
Group sites are not explicitly mentioned for this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has loops with evenly spaced sites, offering partial shade and proximity to the marina and restrooms.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with 24-hour access to the campground and launch ramps.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through www.ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability may exist but reservations are strongly recommended during peak seasons.
Cancellation PolicyReservation cancellation policies may vary. Contact Reserve California or park staff for specifics.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Bidwell Canyon Campground provides opportunities for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and water-based activities like boating and fishing due to its lakeside location.
HikingThe Bidwell Canyon Trail (4.9 miles) is accessible from the campground, offering scenic views and hiking opportunities. The Wyke Island Trail, a short 0.19-mile ADA-accessible trail, is also nearby.
FishingFishing is popular, with species such as bass and salmon available. 'Good spot for some bass fishing on the weekend,' noted one user.
BikingThe 5.5-mile Bidwell Canyon Bike Trail allows for barrier-free biking and offers a foothills environment experience.
BoatingBoating is supported by the nearby marina. Facilities include a boat launch ramp, boat rentals, and a pumping station for boat waste.
Wildlife viewingDeer sightings are common, as one user mentioned: 'Lots of deer!' Another noted, 'Watch for deer 🦌 they roam free and watch the campers.' Other wildlife may also be visible in the surrounding area.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsOpportunities for cultural learning are available at nearby locations like the Lake Oroville Visitor Center, featuring interpretive exhibits on the local ecosystem and native culture.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings or barbecues. Seasonal fire restrictions may apply due to high fire risk.
- Quiet hours are generally observed from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsExtreme fire hazards during hot weather; rattlesnakes have been reported in the area. Seasonal lake level fluctuations may affect access.
Active alertsParts of the Brad Freeman and Dan Beebe trails are closed due to the Thompson Fire. Confirm with park staff for updates.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 64%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital: Oroville Hospital located at 2767 Olive Hwy, Oroville, CA 95966 (approximately 6.5 miles away). Police and ranger services are available within the recreation area.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available. Specific details about the locations or pickup schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Lake Oroville, offering access to a marina, boat ramp, and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSome campers report spotty cellular service. Seasonal bans on campfires during high fire-risk times have led to complaints.
HostHosts are available seasonally and assist with check-ins, firewood purchases, and general information.
Campground Map
801 Bidwell Canyon Road (off Arroyo Drive), Oroville, CA 95966
Driving directionsFrom Highway 70, go east on Highway 162 (Oroville Dam Blvd.). Continue on Oroville Dam Blvd., turning right at Olive Hwy. (Highway 162), proceed approximately 6 miles on Olive Highway to Kelly Ridge Road. Turn left and Kelly Ridge Road ends in the Visitor Center parking lot.
Bidwell Canyon Campground is accessible via paved roads. Seasonal closures and road conditions due to changing lake levels or fire damage might apply. Verify current access by contacting (530) 538-2200.Nearby places
Sacramento (68 miles, approximately 1 hour 15 minutes drive), Paradise (approximately 15 miles, 20 minutes drive), Chico (approximately 30 miles, 45 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Bidwell Canyon Marina offers basic supplies, groceries, bait, and tackle. Additional shopping options are available in Oroville and Chico.
Camper Reviews
4.1
17 reviews
Bidwell Canyon Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Bidwell Canyon Campground receives positive reviews for cleanliness, accessibility, and the availability of full hookups. Reviewers highlight the friendliness of staff and the natural setting, although concerns include inconsistent shower temperatures and fire restrictions.
Review Summaries
Clean restrooms and showers, accessible sites, availability of full hookups, pet-friendly, and a serene environment with abundant wildlife like deer.
Inconsistent shower temperature, limited cell phone service for AT&T, and occasional restrictions on campfires.
Visitors suggest being prepared for inconsistent AT&T service and bringing alternative cooking options in case of fire restrictions.
The campground is less crowded in late fall, as one reviewer noted: 'Mostly empty late October.' Summer months may be busier, and winter is mild but not freezing.
1. 'Clean nice paved full Hookup sites.' (Morgan Swisher)
2. 'Bathrooms and showers were clean! This is an amazing camp ground!' (Jessica K.)
3. 'Watch for deer 🦌 they roam free and watch the...
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Accessible sites were highlighted: #30, #65, and #75 are accessible with nearby facilities. Other specific site reviews were not provided.
Accessibility is praised, with comments on accessible restrooms, showers, and campsites.
The campground is pet-friendly, as noted by reviewers: 'Pet friendly, kid friendly!'
Last updated July 20, 2025