California's 'Gateway To The Sierra Nevada' Is A Charming City With Downtown Fun And Outdoor Adventure

Boasting some of the country's most breathtaking national parks, California is a haven for outdoor explorers. Step into another planet at the surreal Mars-like landscapes of Death Valley National Park, or start planning the perfect road trip itinerary to visit every national park in California. But if you're the kind of traveler who enjoys the bright lights of the bustling city with a dash of rugged backcountry on the side, then this underrated California city is the place to be. Only a little over an hour's drive from Sacramento is Oroville, a delightful metropolis poised on the doorstep of scenic landscapes.

Framed by the towering foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range to the north and the winding curves of the Feather River to the west, Oroville is considered the "gateway to the Sierra Nevada." Thrill-seekers can splash around the blue depths of Lake Oroville against a backdrop of sweeping green ridges, or head out paddling the calm currents and whitewater rapids along the Feather River. More relaxed travelers who prefer putting their feet up to tranquil views, not to mention families holidaying with children, will be drawn to Oroville's quiet recreation areas for picnics beneath the shade of rustling trees, while hikers can follow dusty trails into the rugged wilderness.

Meanwhile, sightseers can head to downtown Oroville to experience a "unique version of small-town America," according to the city website. Shopaholics and bargain hunters can browse the smattering of antique stores and gift shops, culture fiends can explore local museums, and foodies can find tasty refreshments all around. Outdoorsy types can find a rustic campground to sleep amidst the rustlings of nature, while rustic motels in the downtown area offer travelers a bed for restful slumber. No matter what kind of adventure you're looking for, Oroville delivers.

Sightseers will find endless distractions around downtown Oroville. Stop to take photos in front of the Table Mountain Bridge, a historic metal truss bridge spanning the Feather River that was built more than a century ago. Return in the evening to admire the bridge illuminated with colorful lights. Pedestrians can also walk across the bridge for fantastic views of the river down below, mottled with rugged headlands and forested sandbars.

A short walk away from the Table Mountain Bridge is the Pioneer History Museum, where visitors can browse exhibits within the meticulously reconstructed cabin of a prospector during the 1849 gold rush. Take a journey back through Oroville's mining heritage as you explore the antique artifacts and memorabilia, ranging from a tailored miner's vest and Native American arrowheads to gambler's playing cards. The displays are "[i]mpressive for a 'small town' museum," a previous visitor shared in a Google review. Next, walk over to the Oroville Chinese Temple, which dates to the 1860s and is a designated National Historic Place. Surrounded by a bamboo garden, the temple is an active place of worship, but visitors can buy a ticket to explore the temple's museum that features East Asian artifacts.

When you get hungry, you can walk from the Chinese temple over to the Pho Noodle House, which a previous review boldly declared is "the best restaurant ever." From steaming boat noodles and chicken pho to aromatic green curry with steamed rice, your cravings for Southeast Asian cuisine will be satisfied. Sit down to healthy salads, hearty burgers, and tasty cocktails at Provisions, a chic eatery frequented by locals, or grab a sweet treat at Unicone Ice Cream & Treats, where a vibrant mural is a great backdrop for photos.

Travelers in the mood for a leisurely stroll should make their way to Riverbend Park, a vast stretch of green lawns abutting the Feather River. Paved footpaths follow the outline of the riverbank through rolling hills dotted with trees. Picnic tables scattered along the way offer scenic spots to relax with a snack. Sink your toes into the sand at the park's beach or cool off in the refreshing depths of the river, while anglers can bring their rods to the fishing ponds. A previous visitor called it "[b]eautiful and relaxing" in a Google review.

Just a short drive across the Feather River, avid adventurers will find plenty of rugged backcountry to explore in the Oroville Wildlife Area. Sprawling outwards for almost 12,000 acres on either side of the riverbanks, a previous visitor's review called it a "[g]reat place for families to hang out." Bring fishing rods to cast a line for salmon and bass, or meander through miles of idyllic woodlands along the hiking trails. Sit back and enjoy the scenic river landscape, where you might spot wildlife.

Dramatic mountain views await at Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, just a 15-minute drive from downtown Oroville. Thrill-seekers can paddle the refreshing waters, hike the winding trails, and fish, while the lookout tower at the Kelly Ridge Visitor Center offers more laid-back travelers an unforgettable survey of the Sierra Nevada slopes beyond the lake. Campers can also spend the night here amidst the tranquil wilderness. If you're flying in from out of state, the nearest major airport is Sacramento International Airport, located about an hour south of Oroville by car. For more wild California adventures, just under two hours away from Oroville is Lassen Volcanic National Park, an underrated gem with lake views and hiking.