Lake Oroville is the principal storage reservoir of California’s State Water Project on the Feather River in the northern Sacramento Valley foothills. Completed in 1968, the lake covers approximately 15,810 acres. It is managed by the California Department of Water Resources for water supply, hydropower, flood management, and recreation within the State Water Project.

With about 167 miles of shoreline, Oroville combines long river arms, coves, points, and a deep main pool behind Oroville Dam. Depth and bottom structure vary from shallower tributary margins to deep open water near the dam, creating a wide range of boating and fishing habitats. The Feather River canyon setting and the reservoir’s role as the SWP’s keystone storage facility give the basin a distinctive operational and geographic character.

Lake Oroville is a major recreation destination for boating, fishing, camping, and shoreline use, with public ramps, marinas, and state recreation facilities around the pool. Fisheries and boating regulations are supported by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Access is organized through developed recreation areas that serve visitors from across California.

The California Department of Water Resources manages Oroville elevations for State Water Project storage, power generation, flood space, and downstream needs. Full pool is published at 900 feet; project deliveries, seasonal runoff, and flood-control operations move the lake through a substantial operating range. Monitoring levels is important for boating safety in the arms, ramp and dock usability, fishing patterns, and shoreline access.

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