North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve is an approximately 3,300-acre basalt mesa in Butte County near Oroville, protecting vernal-pool habitat and sensitive native species. It offers a self-guided outdoor visit, with spring wildflowers and seasonal water among its natural features.
- Location: near Oroville in Butte County
- Landscape: basalt formations, seasonal streams, waterfalls and pools
- Public access: self-guided visits year-round, from dawn to dusk
- Entry requirement: most visitors aged 16 or older need a CDFW Lands Pass
What does North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve protect?
The reserve protects Northern Basalt Flow Vernal Pools habitat and sensitive native species. Basalt formations shape its elevated mesa, while seasonal streams, waterfalls and pools provide changing features across the landscape.
The California Department of Fish and Game acquired the property in 1993. Additional land was acquired in 1997 to enable public access, and the Fish and Game Commission designated it an Ecological Reserve in 2003.
When can you see wildflowers and seasonal pools?
Spring is the season associated with wildflower blooms at North Table Mountain. Seasonal pools and specialized plants and animals flourish and disappear as the seasons pass, so the landscape changes over the year.
The reserve is open for self-guided visits year-round from dawn to dusk. For current access and safety information, check the official site before you go; the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) also directs visitors to its statewide Harmful Algal Bloom Reports Map for current information about potentially toxic algal mats.
What are the trails and terrain like?
Hiking is on-trail, but visitors should not expect a maintained or designated trail system. Trails may cross private property, and permanent and seasonal paths have formed through visitor use.
The reserve also allows wildlife viewing and seasonal hunting opportunities. Stick to trails while hiking, and take care to follow the reserve’s access rules.
What rules and facilities should you know about?
Visitors aged 16 or older must carry a daily or annual CDFW Lands Pass, except those with a valid California hunting or fishing license and members of school or organized youth groups, including accompanying adults.
Parking at the site is very limited. Parking along Cherokee Road near the CDFW parking lot is not permitted and may result in a ticket. There is no potable water or trash service, so bring what you need and pack out your trash.
Dogs must be on a leash less than 10 feet long; horses and bicycles are prohibited. Camping and fires, including fireworks, are prohibited, as are motorized vehicles except on designated access roads and parking areas.
Do not approach cattle closer than 300 feet. Removing or disturbing plant or animal life, or taking mineral, archaeological or natural resources, is prohibited except as provided under CCR Title 14, Section 650. Drones require a Special Use Permit.
How do you get to North Table Mountain from Oroville?
From Highway 70 in Oroville, take Grand Avenue (Exit 48) east for 1 mile, then turn left onto Table Mountain Boulevard and continue for a tenth of a mile. Turn right onto Cherokee Road and continue north for 6.3 miles; the entrance and small parking lot are on the west side of the road.
The reserve address is 2488 Cherokee Road, Oroville, CA 95965, approximately 8 miles north of Oroville. Sunset Inn Lake Oroville is a hotel in Oroville.
FAQs
Do you need a pass to visit North Table Mountain?
Most visitors aged 16 or older need a daily or annual CDFW Lands Pass. The stated exemptions include holders of a valid California hunting or fishing license and school or organized youth groups, including accompanying adults.
Are the trails maintained?
No. Trails are not maintained, there is no designated trail system, and paths may cross private property. Hiking is on-trail.
Can you bring a dog?
Yes, but dogs must remain on a leash less than 10 feet long. Horses and bicycles are not allowed.
How can you plan time in Oroville around a reserve visit?
A one-day Oroville itinerary can help you organize other local stops around the outing.