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 is possible. * WHERE...A portion of northern California, including the following areas, the Sacramento Valley, northern San Joaquin Valley, Delta region, Sierra Nevada and adjacent foothills, and Coastal Range. * WHEN...From Saturday afternoon through next 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, but do anticipate enhanced runoff in/below scars. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for the creek is between 200 to 300 cubic feet per second (cfs), which provides Class III and IV rapids. The segment mileage of the creek is approximately 9 miles, stretching from the town of Forest Ranch to the outskirts of Chico.
The specific river rapids and obstacles on the Big Chico Creek include the Entrance Rapid, the Rock Garden, and the Corkscrew. The Entrance Rapid is a Class IV rapid that requires precise maneuvering through a narrow chute. The Rock Garden is a Class III rapid that requires avoidance of rocky outcroppings. The Corkscrew is a Class III rapid that features a steep drop and a tight turn.
Specific regulations to the area include a permit requirement for commercial rafting operations, as well as a boating season that typically runs from April to June. Additionally, a minimum age of 12 is required to participate in commercial rafting trips on the creek. Visitors are also advised to be mindful of the sensitive ecosystems surrounding the creek and to practice Leave No Trace principles.
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
|
171cfs |
Butte C Nr Chico Ca
|
169cfs |
Mill C Nr Los Molinos Ca
|
263cfs |
Sacramento R Ab Bend Bridge Nr Red Bluff Ca
|
6360cfs |
Spanish C Ab Blackhawk C At Keddie Ca
|
86cfs |
Spanish C A Quincy Ca
|
56cfs |
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