Situated at the northern end of the Sacramento Valley, 30 minutes south of Red Bluff. This quiet park, surrounded by beautiful, dark volcanic buttes, is well known for fishing, sailing, water skiing and camping. Contact reserveusa.com for camping reservation information.
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact (530) 865-4781
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Black Butte Lake — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Army Corps site — the pass gives 50% off day-use fees only and never covers camping. Confirm at the gate. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Black Butte Lake?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Black Butte Lake. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Black Butte Lake?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include Coyote Trail, Brannin Road, Osprey Trail, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Black Butte Lake is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Depends Is there winter recreation?
Yes — snow and winter activities are available seasonally. Check conditions and closures before you head out.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Nearby sites
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons Bureau of Reclamation Stony Gorge Reservoir
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
Brocken Inaglory / CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Sacramento River National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
