OROVILLE — The California State Parks, in conjunction with Cal Fire, announced Wednesday the closure of all areas of the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area. However houseboat owners will be allowed to inspect their boats for potential smoke or other damage caused by nearby fires at Lime Saddle and Bidwell Canyon marinas.
Vessel washing will be allowed near the marina dock.
The release noted that all of the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area is still within wildfire evacuation warning areas, and changes to openings can change as fire behavior changes.
Houseboat owners at the Lake Oroville Marina at Lime Saddle and Bidwell Canyon Marina will gain access to inspect their boats beginning at 8 a.m. Friday. However the access is for immediate needs only and boaters may not stay overnight, as officials said customers must exit the marina and park by 5 p.m.
Proof of customer registration is required to enter the park unit. Vessel travel on all areas of the lake is prohibited, however the store, fuel and pump out services will be made available from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
All day-use areas, campgrounds and public boat launch ramps will remain closed until further notice, according to the release by State Parks.
“There is no public access for boating or day-use recreation on the water at this time due to public safety concerns and ongoing firefighting efforts,” said California State Parks Information Officer Adeline Yee in an email.
However recreation and day use is available at the North Thermalito Forebay, South Thermalito Forebay and Clay Pit State Vehicle Recreation Area, according to Yee. Car-top boat launch is available at the Thermalito Diversion Pool. The Forebay Aquatic Center is closed due to air quality concerns, however it will begin its Salmon viewing kayak tours Sept. 26 and 27 on the Feather River.
