2025-12-26T16:00:00-08:00
A series of warm atmospheric rivers will bring moderate to heavy rain to the Valley, foothills, and mountains the week of Christmas. The prolonged period of rain will bring the risk of flooding to the Sacramento Valley, northern San Joaquin Valley, northern Sierra Nevada and adjacent foothills, as well as the Coastal Range. * WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...A portion of northern California, including the following areas, Carquinez Strait and Delta, Sacramento Valley, Motherlode, Mountains Southwestern Shasta County to Western Colusa County, Northeast Foothills, Northern San Joaquin Valley, and Shasta Lake Area / Northern Shasta County. * WHEN...Through Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff will result in rises along area rivers, creeks, streams. Small streams and creeks may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in low-lying, poor drainage, and urban areas. Mudslides and rockslides may occur in mountain and foothill areas. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Periods of moderate to heavy rain are forecast the week of Christmas. Debris flows are not expected over recent burn scars in northern California, but do anticipate enhanced runoff in/below scars. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for the Big Chico Creek is between 150-500 cfs, with the best conditions occurring during the spring months when snowmelt runoff is in full swing. The river is rated as a Class III/IV run, with challenging rapids and obstacles throughout the entire segment.
The segment mileage of the Big Chico Creek is approximately 6.5 miles, starting at the Upper Bidwell Park and ending at the Salmon Hole. The river features several notable rapids, including the Meatgrinder, Anaconda, and the Corkscrew. These rapids require advanced kayaking skills and are not recommended for beginners.
There are specific regulations to the area that must be followed for safety reasons. The use of personal flotation devices (PFDs) is mandatory, and alcohol is not allowed on the river. Additionally, there are specific designated take-out points that must be used to avoid trespassing on private property.
In summary, the Big Chico Creek is a challenging river run with a Class III/IV rating, spanning approximately 6.5 miles with notable rapids such as the Meatgrinder, Anaconda, and the Corkscrew. The ideal streamflow range is between 150-500 cfs, and specific regulations must be followed for safety reasons.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 323 cfs (1.92 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 100% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii/iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 11383500 |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Deer C Nr Vina Ca
|
11000cfs |
Butte C Nr Chico Ca
|
2420cfs |
Mill C Nr Los Molinos Ca
|
6150cfs |
Sacramento R Ab Bend Bridge Nr Red Bluff Ca
|
22000cfs |
Spanish C Ab Blackhawk C At Keddie Ca
|
1670cfs |
Spanish C A Quincy Ca
|
1240cfs |
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Forks of Butte Creek
|
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West Branch
|
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Butte Meadows
|
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Butte Meadows Campground
|
||
Philbrook - Feather River
|
Big Chico Creek
Butte Creek
Just Below Confluence With Beaver Creek To Sec 35, T26N, R2E, Ishi Wilderness
Deer Creek Crossing To Just Below Confluence With Beaver Creek