Orland Buttes
3.7939 reviews19225 NEWVILLE ROAD, ORLAND, CA 95963-8901, USA
Orland Buttes
$20.00 - $130.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $20 per night for individual campsites to $130 per night for group campsites. Fees do not include taxes, discounts, or incremental...
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Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$130.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$150.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider530-865-4781
About this campground
Nestled along the shores of Black Butte Lake, Orland Buttes Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 35 thoughtfully positioned campsites and a spacious group area that welcomes gatherings of up to 50 adventurers. From the moment you arrive, modern amenities like hot showers and convenient boat ramp access ensure your comfort, while the unique 18-hole disc golf course weaving through the landscape offers an unexpected twist on traditional camping activities. Open from April's first bloom through early September, this seasonal paradise invites you to create memories against a backdrop of stunning lake views and endless recreational possibilities.
The campground supports a mix of group and individual sites, catering to different outdoor experiences.
Historical SignificanceThe transformation of Stony Creek into the magnificent Black Butte Lake stands as a testament to human ingenuity and nature's adaptability. When engineers completed the dam in 1963, they didn't just create a reservoir—they birthed a recreational wonderland that has welcomed generations of families, anglers, and nature lovers to its welcoming shores.
Weather and SeasonsSpring arrives with character at Black Butte Lake, as April winds dance across the water, creating perfect conditions for sailing enthusiasts. As summer unfolds, the mercury climbs above 90°F, transforming the lake into a refreshing oasis where morning mists give way to brilliant sunshine. While occasional smoke from distant fires may paint dramatic sunsets, the real magic happens in fall when temperatures mellow to perfection, creating ideal conditions for hiking, fishing, and fireside conversations under star-filled skies.
ElevationPositioned at a comfortable elevation in Northern California's rolling hills, the campground offers the perfect balance of accessibility and scenic mountain views.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine 4,460 acres of crystalline water at full capacity, cradled by dramatic black basalt buttes that rise like ancient sentinels from the surrounding landscape. The blue oak woodlands paint a living canvas that shifts from emerald greens to golden ambers with the seasons, creating a photographer's paradise where every sunrise reflects off the lake's mirror-like surface and every sunset ignites the volcanic rock formations in fiery hues.
Geological RegionThe Northern Sacramento Valley reveals its volcanic past at Black Butte Lake, where ancient black basalt buttes tell a story written in stone millions of years ago. These dramatic formations, clothed in native blue oak woodlands, create a unique ecosystem where geological history meets vibrant present-day nature, offering visitors a rare glimpse into California's dynamic landscape evolution.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not comprehensively provided, though user reviews highlight uneven terrain at some campsites, making it potentially challenging for those with mobility issues.
Sites SizeCampsite sizes vary, with some described as small and cramped (e.g., OB15) and others noted as spacious and accommodating for RVs (e.g., OB26).
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies widely. Some users noted a lack of privacy between adjacent sites, especially in crowded loops.
Total Campsites35 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor RVs, sites #18, #25, #26, #28, and #30 are recommended for their level ground. Tent stakes may be difficult due to hard pan soil.
Best CampsitesUser reviews indicate campsites such as #18, #25, #26, and #30 are relatively flat and offer good views of the lake.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in allowed starting at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights total within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site not specified.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 50 people, making it suitable for large gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout with 35 individual campsites and one group campsite. Sites vary in terrain and size.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground open April 1 through the second Monday in September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through Recreation.gov or via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not explicitly addressed; reservations strongly recommended through Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations (after midnight the day before arrival) forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Orland Buttes offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and disc golf. Recreational boating and warm-water fishing are particularly popular. The area also caters to wildlife enthusiasts with birdwatching opportunities.
Hiking
The Paul Thomas trail is available for hiking and offers scenic views. One user noted, 'The hike to the old bridge was about 2 miles round trip with only one hill.' Nearby Buckhorn Recreation Area also provides 13 miles of fitness trails.Fishing
Fishing at Black Butte Lake is renowned, featuring species such as crappie, channel catfish, and large and smallmouth bass.Swimming
Swimming is possible, but lake access is limited due to steep terrain. One reviewer mentioned, 'We had to drive about 20 minutes to the other side of the lake for the kids to enjoy swimming.'Biking
Although biking trails are not explicitly mentioned within Orland Buttes, nearby Buckhorn Recreation Area offers 13 miles of biking trails.Boating
Boating activities, including wakeboarding and sailing, are popular at Black Butte Lake. However, some users noted that low water levels could impact the experience.Wildlife viewing
The area provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing, including birdwatching. Users reported spotting raptors and other bird species.Water Sports
Water activities like wakeboarding and sailing are highlights, though water levels may vary seasonally.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must adhere to local firewood regulations.
- Quiet hours are enforced between 10 PM and 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsSteep terrain limits direct lake access. Users reported issues with bugs (including spiders and roaches), coyotes, and occasional smoke from wildfires.
Active alertsEntire campground closed from the first Monday after Labor Day to March 31.
Weather forecast
56
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 9.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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 emergency services include the Orland Police Department and hospitals in Red Bluff and Chico.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1 through September 30.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information is available on trash and recycling facilities, though one review noted rat traps near the lake-side fences.
Proximity to water featuresClose to Black Butte Lake, but steep terrain limits direct access. Boat ramp available.
Common complaints"Bathrooms are covered in spider webs and spiders," "Restroom facilities were disgusting and not usable," and "Sites numbering is confusing" are recurring themes. Others mention bugs and wind issues.
HostCampground host 'Bear' is frequently praised for being helpful and friendly.
Campground Map
19225 NEWVILLE ROAD, ORLAND, CA 95963-8901, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 5, take the Black Butte Lake exit at Orland, CA. Travel west on County Road 200/Newville Road for 6 miles. Turn left on County Road 206 and drive 4 miles to the campground.
Road access is via paved roads, with seasonal restrictions; entrance gates close at 10 PM during the open season (April 1 through September 30).Nearby places
Sacramento, CA (100 miles, approximately 1.5 hours)
Red Bluff, CA (30 miles, approximately 40 minutes)
Chico, CA (30 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Chico and Orland provide grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel options.
Camper Reviews
3.8
39 reviews
Orland Buttes has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Orland Buttes are mixed, with an average sentiment score of 3.7 out of 5. Many users appreciated the scenic views and helpful camp host, while recurring complaints included dirty bathrooms, bugs, and inconsistent maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 39 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews frequently mentioned scenic views, spacious campsites, and the helpfulness of the camp host, Bear. Some users also praised the quiet, peaceful environment and proximity to the lake.
Based on 39 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues raised in reviews include dirty and poorly maintained restroom facilities, spider infestations, and low water levels in the lake during certain seasons.
Based on 39 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing a portable toilet for convenience and being prepared for potential wind. Campsites 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, and 35 are noted for being flat and suitable for RVs.
Based on 39 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews highlight that the campground is less crowded during weekdays and outside peak summer months. Seasonal wind and fluctuating water levels are notable factors.
Based on 39 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bear, the host, did a great job of making people feel at home.' 2. 'Bathrooms were clean and functional, and the hot shower was great!' 3. 'Restroom facilities were disgusting and not usable.' 4....
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite OB26 is frequently praised for its level ground and scenic views. Campsites OB18, OB25, and OB30 are also highlighted for their suitability for RVs.
Based on 39 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are sparse, but uneven terrain and challenging site numbering were noted as potential issues for some visitors.
Based on 39 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Specific reviews about pet-related amenities are not available, though one user mentioned enjoying hiking trails nearby with their dog.
Based on 39 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025