Butte Creek Ecological Reserve, Protected natural area near Chico, California.
Butte Creek Ecological Reserve is a protected natural area spanning approximately 287 acres along Butte Creek with two separate units near Chico. The land contains riparian forests, oak woodlands, and numerous habitats that support different kinds of wildlife.
Mining for gold, sand, and gravel shaped the canyon from the mid-1800s until recent decades, significantly altering the landscape. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife eventually acquired the property to restore and protect the natural environment.
The land holds meaning for the Mechoopda Indian Tribe, who took ownership of the Honey Run Unit in 2023 and continue their ancestral ties to this territory. Walking through the forest and along the creek, you sense the ongoing connection between the tribe and this place.
The reserve is best explored on foot, with trails along the creek and through different habitats suited to various skill levels. Wear sturdy shoes and check seasonal conditions before your visit, as trail quality changes with weather and water levels.
The creek supports the largest population of Central Valley Spring Run Chinook salmon in the region, demonstrating remarkable recovery after habitat protection began. These fish depend on flowing water and healthy forest conditions that the reserve now provides.
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