Camping in Chico, California places visitors in the Sacramento Valley at approximately 200 feet elevation, with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F from June through September. The area offers camping options along the Sacramento and Feather Rivers with most campgrounds situated within a 30-40 minute drive of downtown Chico. Water access varies seasonally, with river levels changing dramatically between winter and summer months.
What to do
Fishing access points: At River Reflections RV Park, campers can fish directly from the property. "Quiet shady and on the feather river. Just off of hwy70," notes Melissa K. The park provides grass lawn access to the river, making it easy for anglers to find spots.
Casino entertainment: Several campgrounds offer gambling opportunities within walking distance. "Electric hookups, sewer, clean grounds, playground, swimming pool, club house with bar and pool tables, and the casino and brewery are right there," writes a reviewer about Feather Falls Casino KOA. For campers who enjoy nightlife without traveling far from camp.
Swimming options: During summer heat, local cooling spots become essential. "The Olive Pit has a great cafe and wine tasting room. They sell specialty items such as olives, balsamic vinegar, etc. And they have a great breakfast!" mentions Chanel C., though swimming options require driving to nearby water access points when staying at this overnight parking area.
What campers like
Convenient overnight stops: The Olive Pit Dispersed Lot provides free overnight parking with surprising amenities. "FREE overnight parking for RVs, trailers, and camper vehicles. Very safe and heavily traffic location," writes Chanel C. The location includes easy access to stores and restaurants, making it popular for those traveling between destinations.
River proximity: Campers frequently mention enjoying riverside sites. "The campsite we had was feet from the feather River. Who wouldn't be able to relax and enjoy with this as a background," states Kathleen G. about her stay at River Reflections RV Park. These waterfront sites remain popular despite occasional noise from nearby roads.
Clean facilities: The Parkway RV Resort & Campground receives consistent praise for maintenance. "Tent camped here a few nights ago. A little spendy at $37 for a single night but it is super close to I5 and a few gas stations. Nice property with some grass to throw the tent on," reports Adam E. Most reviewers appreciate the well-kept grounds despite higher prices than dispersed camping options.
What you should know
Summer heat strategies: Temperatures regularly exceed 100°F during summer months. "Local temperatures frequently exceed 100°F during summer months," making morning and evening the optimal times for outdoor activities. Campgrounds with shade become premium during hot spells.
Highway noise: Many campgrounds sit near major thoroughfares. "I can hear a gun range and a freeway. Basically in town, so not feeling like I'm enjoying nature," notes Elizabeth M. about Woodson Bridge Mobile Home & RV Park. Several reviewers mention traffic sounds at campgrounds along Interstate 5.
River conditions: Water access changes seasonally. "Lovely oaks, no river access. Reservations.gov implied campground was full, we took a chance for the night and MANY SPOTS WERE AVAILABLE! But river access has been eroded in this last year so access is down the way at the county park," reports traci R. about conditions at Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area.
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Oroville-Feather Falls Casino KOA offers swimming facilities essential during summer. "Even without the countless amenities, this KOA has incredible staff & service. The front desk was super welcoming. They gave us treats and toys for each of our pups," writes Rara B. The clean grounds and recreation facilities make it suitable for children.
Playgrounds and recreation: Some campgrounds provide dedicated kids' areas. "Electric hookups, sewer, clean grounds, playground, swimming pool, club house with bar and pool tables," notes Melissa K., highlighting family-friendly amenities that help entertain children during extreme temperatures when outdoor hiking isn't practical.
Lake access timing: Bidwell Canyon Campground offers lake access, though conditions change. "Unfortunately the beach access/swimming area has turned into a meadow which was nice to see deer but there wasn't a place for the little ones to swim (but that's the drought out here for you)," mentions Sean J. Families should check current lake conditions before planning water activities.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Many campgrounds feature uneven terrain. "A lot of the sites are very uneven, ours was almost terraced, and the tent area was barely big enough for our 8 person tent. When I took a drive around it looked like many were similarly sloped/terraced not a flat site," shares Sean J. about Bidwell Canyon Campground.
Hookup positions: Check utility locations before setup. "We were in site A10 which we found a little difficult to connect the sewer hose without two hoses," advises Denise G. from her experience at The Parkway RV Resort & Campground. Many RVers recommend carrying extension hoses and cords for challenging site configurations.
Pet friendly camping near Chico: Most campgrounds accommodate dogs with varying amenities. "Great gal checked us in went out of her way to show us available spots. The park is on the river with grass lawn all the way to river and very well kept," notes Ed G., appreciating the grassy areas that work well for pets at River Reflections RV Park.
