Redding Field Office

Tehama Recreation

The Sacramento River Bend Area is a valuable historic and natural resource that presents many recreational and educational opportunities. From the lush riparian areas surrounding the Sacramento River and it's tributaries to the expanse of the rolling hills of the blue oak savannah, the Sacramento River Bend Area offers diverse habitat for bald eagles, osprey, migratory and song birds, deer, and salmon as well as hunting, camping, hiking, boating, picnicking, and wildlife viewing for the recreating public. Download and print the Sacramento River Bend brochure and map or view the slide show of the area.

Boating Access

The Sacramento River (from Balls Ferry to Red Bluff) is served by a variety of developed boat ramps and primitive river access sites. Public boat ramps are available at Balls Ferry, Bend Bridge Park, and Lake Red Bluff Recreation Area. Jelly's Ferry, Barge Hole, and Perry Riffle (walk in only) offer primitive launch sites. The boat ramp at Reading Island can be used by small watercrafts, but is usually overgrown with vegetation during the summer months making it challenging for any watercraft. Please see the Sacramento River Bend Area map for specific locations and directions. "A Boating Trail Guide to the Sacramento River from Redding to Red Bluff" is also available along with other information about BLM lands within the region at BLM's Redding Field Office. For more opportunities to get out on a river see the Rivers page.

Sacramento River Boating Information
This flyer gives some basic information to those wishing to float or paddle their way down the majestic Sacramento River from Balls Ferry to Woodson Bridge. Additional brochures are available through the BLM Redding Field Office.

Paynes Creek Wetlands

Concerns have increased in recent years over population declines of migratory bird species that breed in North America and winter south of the United States - Neotropical Migratory Birds. The BLM recognizes this problem and has created the Payne's Creek Wetlands with the help of partners like California Fish and Game, Bureau of Reclamation, California Wildlife Conservation Board, and Ducks Unlimited in an effort to enhance populations of these birds and other species. The BLM manages this wetland area, located along the Pacific Flyway, to protect and enhance the existing riparian habitat and wildlife communities, as well as provide for recreational use, cultural and natural interpretation, and educational opportunities.

Trails

Most attractions along the river can be reached by foot, mountain bike or horseback. Trailheads begin at Hog Lake Plateau, the Paynes Creek Recreation Area , Jelly's Ferry and multiple trailheads surround the Paynes Creek Wetlands. The Paynes Creek Wetlands trail systems and Hog Lake Plateau allow for great springtime wildlife viewing. The Yana Trail, with trailheads at Perry Riffle and Jelly's Ferry, is a great way to explore the backcountry. Most trails are rugged and unmarked and encourage self-discovery. Please remember to close any gates behind you after you pass through. Visit our Trails page for more outdoor experiences.

Wildflowers

This area offers amazing wildflowers viewing in the spring. The rolling hills of this oak woodland are carpeted with purple and yellow in all directions. The Hog Lake Plateau and the Yana Trail are great locations to view open expanses of blooming wildflowers.

Camping

Although there are no developed BLM campgrounds in this area, camping is allowed on most BLM lands for up to 14 days per calendar year. Day-use sites such as the Jelly's Ferry site, the mouth of Inks Creek, and the Lower Payne's Creek area parking areas are closed to camping. Group camping is available at Reading Island site, under a special use permit issued by the BLM. Massacre Flat is a popular primitive campsite for boaters. The state managed Battle Creek and Cottonwood Creek Wildlife Areas are closed to camping. There is no garbage collection in most of the area so if you PACK IT IN please PACK IT OUT. For more information on BLM camping see the Camping Page.

Hunting

Most BLM lands are open to hunting under California Department of Fish and Game regulations. Some sites such as Reading Island and the State Battle Creek Wildlife Area are closed to hunting and shooting. Be courteous to private property owners adjacent to public land. Remember, it is against State law to discharge a weapon within 150 yards of a dwelling or outbuilding. Target shooting is NOT allowed in this area. Please remove all shells and debris to keep your public lands clean and safe.

Safety Concerns

  • The Sacramento River water is cold (45°-50°) year-round and is deceptively swift and powerful.
  • Always wear an approved floatation device when on the river.
  • The Yana Trail fords Inks Creek and is impassible at times of wet weather. Contact the BLM Redding Field Office prior to a wet weather hike on the Yana Trail.
  • Rattlesnakes are a common sight on warm days. Watch your step.
  • Summer temperatures in this area can exceed 100°F and there is no potable water available in the area, so bring plenty of drinking water.

Local Attractions in the Area

Coleman National Fish Hatchery (530) 365-8622
Battle Creek Wildlife Area (530)225-2300
Sacramento River Discovery Center within the Lake Red Bluff Recreation Area (530) 527-1196
Ide Adobe State Historic Park (530) 529-8599
For further information contact the California Welcome Center located off of I-5 in Anderson at (800-4-SHASTA).

Any of the brochures and maps listed below are available through the BLM Redding Field Office at 355 Hemsted Drive Redding, CA 96022 (530)224-2100.