Burney Falls really is one of Northern California’s most jaw-dropping natural wonders. People from all over the country come here just to see its 129-foot curtain of water.
You’ll find it in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. The waterfall runs year-round, and the water’s so clear it almost looks unreal. There’s a kind of magic in the air when you’re standing near the spray.
If you want an amazing Burney Falls experience, you’ve got to know when to go, where to snap those perfect photos, and how to dodge the summer crowds. I’ve learned that a little planning—especially around timing and where you go in the park—can turn a hectic trip into something unforgettable.
Whether you’re just swinging by for the day or camping for a few nights, I’ll share what’s worked for me. I’m talking favorite photo spots, quieter corners of the park, and a few ways to make the most of your time at this incredible place.
Essential Planning for Your Burney Falls Trip
Late spring through early fall is the sweet spot for Burney Falls. Water flow peaks in April and May, which is when the falls look their most dramatic.
You’ll pay a day-use fee at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. The park’s easy to reach from Sacramento or the Mt. Shasta area.
Best Time to Visit for Crowds and Weather
I’d go between April and October for the best weather. In April and May, snowmelt from the mountains makes the falls thunder with water.
Summer’s great for hiking and being outdoors, but wow, the crowds really show up. I’ve seen the place get packed on weekends from June through August.
Here’s how I avoid the worst of it:
- Try for a weekday visit
- Get there before 9 AM if you can
- Skip holiday weekends if crowds aren’t your thing
In the fall—September and October—it cools off, and the trees start showing those gorgeous autumn colors. The falls slow down a bit, but they still impress. If you’re thinking about a winter visit, expect cold and maybe some snow.
Entrance Fee and Park Hours
You’ll pay $10 per car for day use. I always have cash or a card ready—either works at the entrance.
The park opens at sunrise and closes at sunset, but the exact hours depend on the season:
- Summer: 6 AM – 9 PM
- Winter: 7 AM – 6 PM
Camping costs extra. I usually check the California State Parks website for the latest info and to see if I need a reservation.
How to Get There from Major Cities
Burney Falls sits in Shasta County on Highway 89. Here’s how long the drive takes from a few big cities:
From Sacramento: 3.5 hours (225 miles). Take I-5 North, then Highway 89 North.
From Mt. Shasta: 1.5 hours (65 miles). It’s a straight shot down Highway 89 South.
From Lake Tahoe: 4 hours (250 miles). Highway 89 North winds through some pretty epic mountain scenery.
Plug 24898 Highway 89, Burney, CA 96013 into your GPS. I always check traffic before heading out, especially in summer when Highway 89 can get busy.
Accessibility and Park Rules
You can reach the main viewing platform in a wheelchair by following the paved path from the parking lot. If you want to get right to the base of the falls, you’ll have to tackle some stairs and rougher ground.
A few park rules to keep in mind:
- No pets on the trails (you can have them in the camping areas)
- No swimming at the falls
- Stick to the marked trails
- Take your trash with you
Bring your own water—there aren’t many fountains along the trails. Cell service isn’t great, so I download my maps before I go.
The visitor center has trail maps and the latest updates. Park rangers are super helpful if you have questions about accessibility or trail conditions.
Finding the Best Photo Spots at Burney Falls
Burney Falls is a dream for photographers. You’ll find several awesome spots to capture that 129-foot drop and all the cool rock formations.
It really helps to know where to stand and what gear will make your shots pop. I’ve fumbled with lenses and filters enough times to have a few favorites now.
Top Vantage Points for Photography
The main overlook platform gives you that classic straight-on shot. It’s a good place to start and get the whole falls in one frame.
If you follow the Burney Falls Loop Trail down to the base, you’ll get a totally different angle. Down there, the mist makes photos look dramatic.
Don’t skip the bridge crossing. Most people miss it, but you can catch the water flowing over the lava rock from the side.
Best spots by time of day:
- Morning: Main overlook—soft, golden light
- Midday: Base of falls—misty, even lighting
- Late afternoon: Bridge—warm light from the side
Along the trail, look for spots where you can frame the falls through tree branches. It adds a natural border and looks great in photos.
Tips for Capturing the 129-Foot Waterfall
A wide-angle lens (I like 16-35mm) helps you fit everything in, especially up close.
If you want to freeze the water, use a fast shutter speed (1/250s or faster). For those dreamy, silky water shots, slow it down (1/2 to 2 seconds) and use a tripod.
The mist at the base softens the light, which is perfect for portraits—no harsh shadows.
Settings that usually work for me:
- Aperture: f/8 to f/11 for detail
- ISO: 100-400 (bump it up if it’s shady)
- Focus: Single point autofocus on the falls
Take a bunch of shots at different exposures. The bright water and dark rocks can mess with your camera’s metering.
Recommended Gear for Stunning Images
A sturdy tripod is a must, especially since it gets slippery near the mist. I prefer carbon fiber—it’s lighter for the hike.
A polarizing filter helps cut glare on the wet rocks and makes the water look richer. It can also darken the sky for more contrast.
Bring lens cloths and a hood. Your lens will get wet, trust me.
My go-to gear list:
- Wide-angle lens (16-35mm)
- Tripod with grippy feet
- Polarizing filter
- Spare batteries (the cold mist drains them)
- Waterproof camera bag
A remote shutter release helps keep things sharp during long exposures. You can use your phone’s camera app as a wireless remote if you want.
If you’re planning to shoot early or late, throw a headlamp in your bag. The trail gets pretty dark under the trees.
How to Beat the Summer Crowds
In summer, Burney Falls gets busy fast. Parking lots fill up by mid-morning, and sometimes the park even closes when it hits capacity.
I’ve learned to outsmart the crowds with a few simple tricks.
Early Morning and Weekday Strategies
Get there before 8 AM if you can, especially in summer. The park opens at 8, but most people don’t roll in until after 10.
Best times to show up:
- Weekdays: 8:00-9:00 AM
- Weekends: 7:30-8:30 AM (sometimes I just hang out in the lot if the gates aren’t open yet)
Mid-week is the real secret. Tuesdays through Thursdays are so much quieter. I’ve walked the main trail on a Wednesday morning and barely seen anyone.
If you have to go on a weekend, go early and plan to leave by 11 AM. That gives you a few peaceful hours before things get crowded.
Bring a headlamp if you’re starting early. The trail’s in good shape, but the extra light helps, especially if you’re taking photos.
Alternate Routes and Hidden Spots
The main deck gets packed, but there are quieter places. The trail to the base of the falls is usually less crowded and the views are awesome.
Try these spots:
- The base of the falls (take the steep trail down)
- Upstream along Burney Creek
- Picnic areas away from the main falls
Lake Britton is in the same park and rarely crowded. I’ve spent afternoons fishing and kayaking there while the falls area buzzed with people.
If you keep following the loop trail past the falls, you’ll find peaceful forest and creek views. Most folks turn around at the main overlook, so this part stays quiet even on busy days.
Visiting During Shoulder Seasons
Late spring and early fall are my favorite times. You get good weather without the crowds.
Best months:
- May: Tons of water, mild temps, not too busy
- September: Warm days, cool mornings, great light for photos
- October: Fall colors, crisp air, hardly any crowds
For hiking and photography, these months can’t be beat. The water’s still flowing strong through September, and the forest puts on a show as the leaves change.
October is especially peaceful, even if the falls slow down a bit. Honestly, I think the quiet and the autumn colors make up for it.
Top Outdoor Activities in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
You’ve got three main things to do at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park: hike the famous loop trail, fish or boat on Lake Britton, and hop on the Pacific Crest Trail for longer hikes.
Hiking the Burney Falls Loop Trail
The Burney Falls Loop Trail is hands-down the most popular hike here. It’s an easy 1.2-mile loop that takes you right to the waterfall, which runs all year.
Start at the main parking lot on a paved path. I usually take the left fork first—this leads you to the top viewing platform for a killer overview.
The bottom part of the trail brings you right up to the base. You’ll walk beside Burney Creek and get misted by the falls. It’s unpaved but in good shape.
Trail at a glance:
- Distance: 1.2 miles round-trip
- Difficulty: Easy
- Time: 30-45 minutes
- Elevation gain: 200 feet
You’ll finish the loop through a shady forest before ending up back at the parking lot. It’s great for all skill levels and packed with photo ops.
Fishing and Boating on Lake Britton
Lake Britton is perfect for water activities. It hugs part of the park and has calm water for boating and fishing.
Fishing’s good all year. The lake’s got bass, trout, and a few other types. I usually have the best luck near the park’s shoreline access.
There’s a boat ramp for launching small boats. Kayaking and canoeing are both super chill on these waters.
Swimming’s allowed in certain parts of Lake Britton. The water stays cool, even in summer. Always check the current conditions before jumping in.
You get five miles of shoreline to explore, so it’s easy to find a quiet spot to fish or just relax by the water.
Pacific Crest Trail Access
The park connects right to the Pacific Crest Trail. That means you can head out for longer hikes if you’re feeling adventurous.
The PCT section near Burney Falls is great for day hiking. You can go north or south from the park. The terrain’s a bit tougher than the main loop, but the views are worth it.
Day hikers don’t need overnight permits for these stretches. You’ll see more of the volcanic landscape and forests around the park.
Bring extra water and snacks for the PCT. These trails aren’t as developed, so a little prep goes a long way.
Find the trailhead near the camping areas. I like to check with park staff about current trail conditions and how far they recommend going for a day hike.
Camping and Staying Overnight Near Burney Falls
You can camp right in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, just steps from the waterfall. If you’d rather sleep indoors, nearby motels offer comfortable alternatives.
Reservations and Campground Amenities
If you’re planning a summer trip, definitely book your campsite early. Spots can fill up fast, and I usually reserve mine up to seven months ahead—just call (800) 444-PARK or hop onto the California State Parks website.
The campground has over 120 sites, all without hookups, for $35 a night. Each site gets you a fire ring and a picnic table. I noticed the bathrooms and facilities look freshly renovated—clean, modern, and the campsites aren’t crammed together.
Cabin Options Available:
- 18-foot cabin: $85/night (sleeps 4)
- 24-foot cabin: $105/night (sleeps 6)
The cabins come with propane heaters, bunk beds, and a covered porch for those slow mornings. Since there’s no electricity, bring a battery lantern or two. Restrooms and showers sit just a short walk away.
You won’t have to trek far—every campsite sits within walking distance of both Burney Falls and Lake Britton. It’s pretty great being just minutes from the main trail to the falls.
Nearby Alternative Lodging Options
If camping isn’t your thing, Green Gables Motel & Suites sits only about 12 minutes from the park. I’ve found their rooms clean and comfy, and the staff always seem genuinely friendly.
Staying here puts you in the perfect spot for early morning trips to the falls. You can show up around 8:30 AM, catch the best light, and avoid the crowds.
There are also other motels in the McCloud area, about 20 to 30 minutes away. They work well if the closer places are full, especially during peak season.
Spending the night nearby means you get to see the falls during golden hour or first thing in the morning. Sometimes, you’ll spot rainbows in the mist—honestly, it’s magical.
Nearby Destinations and Scenic Drives
Burney Falls makes a fantastic home base for exploring Northern California’s wild landscapes. Lassen Volcanic National Park sits just 46 minutes away, and Mt. Shasta offers alpine adventures and cute mountain towns not much farther.
Exploring Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park is only a 46-minute drive south, so it’s easy to do as a day trip. I think this park gets overlooked way too often—its active volcanic features really stand out.
You’ll spot bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and vibrant hot springs. Bumpass Hell is the biggest hydrothermal area, and you can reach it with a 3-mile round-trip hike.
Manzanita Lake is worth a stop for its easy trails and those classic Lassen Peak reflections. It’s peaceful, with plenty of spots to picnic or watch for wildlife.
If you’re up for a challenge, hike the Cinder Cone trail. It’s a 4-mile round trip through painted dunes and old lava beds, ending with sweeping views from the top.
Summer is your best bet for exploring the higher elevations. Snow usually closes many roads from November through May.
Highway 89 links up with the park, so you can create your own scenic driving loop through volcanic countryside. Just remember, Lassen has its own entry fee—separate from Burney Falls.
Day Trips to Mt. Shasta and McCloud
Mt. Shasta towers over the region at 14,179 feet. The area around it is packed with things to do, and you can get there in about 90 minutes from Burney Falls.
McCloud is one of those charming old lumber towns, full of Victorian buildings and home to the stunning McCloud River Falls. Three waterfalls line an easy 4-mile trail—super accessible for most folks.
The town of Mt. Shasta has plenty of spots to eat, shop, or stay overnight. If you’re craving alpine scenery, check out Castle Lake for hiking and those glassy mountain reflections.
Dunsmuir draws visitors with its famous Mossbrae Falls—springs spill out from mossy canyon walls, and it’s honestly a sight you won’t forget. If you’re into trains, the Railroad Park Resort has vintage train cars you can explore.
Highway 89 ties all these places together, winding through forests and mountain valleys. The drive itself is half the fun, with views that swing from volcanic peaks to deep river canyons.
Try to give yourself a full day for this loop. Each stop offers something unique—whether it’s a photo op, a waterfall, or just a quiet moment in nature.
Northern California Road Trip Itinerary Ideas
Northern California’s got some truly epic road trip options, especially if you use Burney Falls as your jumping-off point. You’ll find routes here that really show off just how varied this region can be.
Three-Day Volcanic Loop:
- Day 1: Start at Burney Falls and head over to Lassen Volcanic National Park.
- Day 2: Take Highway 89 from Lassen to Mt. Shasta.
- Day 3: Spend some time exploring the Mt. Shasta area before looping back.
Five-Day Mountain and Lakes Tour:
- Begin at Burney Falls, then wind your way to Lake Tahoe using scenic backroads.
- From Tahoe, make your way up to Lassen Volcanic National Park.
- Next, cruise from Lassen to Mt. Shasta and McCloud.
- Wrap it up by returning through the Shasta National Forest.
If you’re itching to see the coast, Highway 299 can get you there. I love this drive—it cuts through the Trinity Alps and eventually connects with Highway 101.
Lake Tahoe sits about three hours southeast. The scenery along the way? Absolutely top-notch. Think mountain passes, thick forests, and plenty of spots to pull over and soak it all in.
Honestly, if you’re traveling in summer, book your hotels or campsites ahead of time. Trust me, things fill up fast. And if you’re braving these roads in winter, make sure you’ve got chains or a 4WD—some of those mountain stretches can get pretty dicey.
