BEAR CREEK
River Runs • Kayaking • Whitewater
November 21, 2024
National Weather Service • Until 2024-11-21T16:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Prolonged periods of moderate to heavy rain with amounts of 3 to 6 inches expected, and up to 8 to 12 inches possible in the foothills. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE...A portion of northern California, including the following areas, Northern and Central Sacramento Valley, Mountains Southwestern Shasta County to Western Colusa County, Northeast Foothills/Sacramento Valley, and Shasta Lake Area / Northern Shasta County. * WHEN...Through 4 AM PST Saturday morning. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in sharp rises of rivers, creeks, and streams, and ponding of water or flooding on roadways and other low-lying locations. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
SUMMARY
| Last Updated | 2024-09-23 |
| River Levels | 749 cfs (2.09 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 100% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-v |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage |
USGS 11376550 |
Bear Creek is a popular whitewater river run located in the state of California. The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 300-1200 cfs, with the best time to run being during the spring and early summer months.
The class rating for Bear Creek ranges from class III to class V, depending on the segment of the river being run. The upper segment is rated at class III, while the lower segment is rated at class V due to the presence of multiple rapids and obstacles.
The total segment mileage for Bear Creek is approximately 10 miles, with the upper segment being 3 miles and the lower segment being 7 miles. The upper segment is characterized by long pools and scenic views, while the lower segment is more technical and challenging, with tight channels and steep drops.
Some of the specific rapids and obstacles on Bear Creek include The Wall, The S-Turn, The Slot, and The Notch, which require advanced paddling skills to navigate safely.
There are specific regulations in place for the area, including a permit system and a limit on the number of daily permits issued. Additionally, all paddlers must wear a helmet and a personal flotation device at all times while on the river.
Local Campgrounds
| Camping Area | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bidwell Canyon - Lake Oroville State Rec Area | 75 | |||
| Milsap Bar | 20 | |||
| Fouts | 11 | |||
| Lower Nye | 6 | |||
| Limesaddle - Lake Oroville State Rec Area | ||||
| Davis Flat | 29 | |||
| Feather Falls | 5 | |||
| East Park Reservoir - USBR | ||||
| Loafer Creek - Lake Oroville State Rec Area | ||||
| Grimy Gulch - Stony Gorge Reservoir - USBR |
