Black Butte Lake camping encompasses several recreation areas across 4,460 acres of water with elevations ranging between 350-500 feet. Summer temperatures frequently rise above 100°F, creating challenging camping conditions from June through August. The lake sits within a region characterized by rolling hills and oak woodlands, with camping options including both developed sites and limited dispersed options.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Black Butte Lake supports populations of bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. Anglers frequently fish from the shoreline at Buckhorn Recreation Area, which provides good lake access. "Sites were kinda small, but we we able to fit 2. -6 person tents and a 4 person in a row. Water was super warm, but gets icky in the summer, so definitely need to go early in the season," notes one visitor about water conditions.
Hiking trails: The area offers several hiking paths through oak woodlands and along the lakeshore. At Sycamore Grove Campground, campers can access nature trails with identified plant species. "They have many of the plants and trees recognized by little name tags. So interesting and absolutely gorgeous," reports one camper who explored the area.
Boating access: The lake provides boat ramps at multiple locations around its perimeter. "This is a beautiful, clean campground with a boat ramp and day use area for fishermen," notes a Sycamore Grove visitor. Motorized boats are permitted on the lake with standard California boating regulations in effect.
What campers like
Level parking areas: Many campsites feature flat, stable parking surfaces for comfortable setup. At The Parkway RV Resort & Campground, visitors appreciate the practical layout: "When we arrived, the sites were clean and orderly, and there was actually grass and level parking spots. The full hookups worked great and it turned out to be just what we needed."
Pet-friendly options: Most campgrounds in the region welcome pets with designated areas for animals. The Olive Pit Dispersed Lot provides a small pet area for basic needs: "There is a pet area that has a small white fence around a dirted area for pets to relieve themselves."
Natural surroundings: The oak woodlands and lake views create a pleasant environment for campers. One visitor to Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area noted, "Lovely oaks, and a fine spot for the night. Friendly staff and campground hosts," though they mentioned river access was eroded in recent years.
What you should know
Extreme temperatures: Summer heat regularly exceeds 100°F from June through September. Multiple campers note the intensity of summer conditions. "Not much to the site. It was very hot and a distance to the lake," reported one Buckhorn Recreation Area visitor.
Varying site privacy: Campsite layouts differ significantly across locations. At Woodson Bridge Mobile Home & RV Park, a visitor observed, "Green & leafy campground right on the Sacramento River! Full hookups (30 amp), with very clean bathhouse and a community lodge available during the day and also picnic and grill area."
Seasonal considerations: Early spring offers the most moderate temperatures. A camper at Buckhorn Recreation Area advised: "Water was super warm, but gets icky in the summer, so definitely need to go early in the season." Lake levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting water activities.
Wind conditions: Unpredictable winds can impact tent camping. A Buckhorn visitor warned: "Wasn't windy when we got there in the morning, but that night the wind started and almost blew everything away. STAKE down, no matter the weather."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some recreation areas include play structures for children. At Sycamore Grove, "The camp site is really close to town... like five minutes and your at a store. The is a ice cream truck that come through the camp," notes one visitor, highlighting conveniences for families.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds support diverse wildlife observation opportunities. At Orland Buttes Recreation Area, visitors can spot various animals. "This is a nice, basic COE campground with hiking trails, lake access, and a boat ramp," reports a camper.
Swimming conditions: Water activities depend on seasonal lake conditions. "Water was super warm, but gets icky in the summer, so definitely need to go early in the season," notes a Buckhorn visitor, suggesting spring visits for better swimming experiences.
Tips from RVers
Dump station availability: Several campgrounds provide dump stations for RVs. At Orland Buttes Recreation Area, a visitor explained the process: "There is a dump station and water flush on the way out. There was a water spigot with no handle at the dump station as well, and we used pliers to open the water and fill our tanks."
Pull-through site options: Many RV parks offer convenient pull-through sites. At the Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot, a visitor noted, "Sites are level 75 ft pull through sites. We will stay again. Lower numbered sites are closest to amenities."
Hookup variations: RV campers should verify available utilities before arrival. At Orland Buttes Recreation Area, "No hookups at sites, but there are random water spigots throughout the campground, as well as a dump station and water flush on the way out."
