Feather River Wildlife Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 7, 2025
Feather River Wildlife Area is a state-owned wildlife area located in California, United States.
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Summary
It spans across 1,400 acres of land and is home to a diverse range of wildlife species.
There are several good reasons to visit Feather River Wildlife Area. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, fishing, hunting, and hiking in this area. The wildlife area is known for its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife.
Some specific points of interest to see in Feather River Wildlife Area include the viewing platform at the Thermalito Afterbay, the waterfowl hunting blind, and the historical ranch buildings. Visitors can also explore the riparian woodland, grasslands, and wetland habitats in the area.
Interesting facts about Feather River Wildlife Area include its history as a working ranch and farm, and its role in providing habitat for migratory waterfowl. The area is also home to several threatened and endangered species, including the Swainson's hawk, the western pond turtle, and the valley elderberry longhorn beetle.
The best time of year to visit Feather River Wildlife Area depends on the activity. Bird watching is best in the winter and spring, while fishing and hunting are popular in the fall. Visitors can access the area year-round, but should be aware of seasonal closures and restrictions.
Overall, Feather River Wildlife Area is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and outdoor enthusiasts looking to experience the beauty of California's wildlife.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
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Rolling Hills Park
Orchard Glen Park
Sutter National Wildlife Refuge