A mule deer grazes on vegetation along the Bidwell Canyon Trail in Butte County, California. Photo courtesy of the California Department of Water Resources

OROVILLE, CA (MPG) - Visitors planning trips to Lake Oroville and the Feather River this summer are being urged to stay alert around wildlife and prepare for temporary access changes as a major improvement project gets underway at one of the area's popular recreation sites.

The California Department of Water Resources and California State Parks are reminding visitors that the Lake Oroville State Recreation Area is home to black bears, mountain lions, coyotes, deer, raccoons and many other native species.

Officials encourage visitors to observe wildlife from a safe distance and never feed animals. Food and scented items should be stored in locked vehicles or bear-resistant containers to help prevent bears and other wildlife from becoming accustomed to human food.

If a bear is encountered, visitors should remain calm, pick up small children, make themselves appear as large as possible and slowly back away while giving the animal plenty of space. Running should be avoided because it may trigger a bear's instinct to chase.

State Parks also reminds visitors that dogs are prohibited on most trails and day-use areas within the recreation area. In locations where dogs are allowed, they must remain on a leash no longer than 6 feet and under the immediate control of their owner.

Visitors should also be aware that the Oroville Wildlife Area Thermalito Afterbay Outlet campground and boat ramp closed June 29 as construction begins on an $8 million improvement project led by the Sutter Butte Flood Control Agency in partnership with the Department of Water Resources and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The project will expand recreational access along the Feather River with a new two-lane concrete boat ramp, an improved gravel launch for non-trailered boats, a 25-site primitive campground, a day-use picnic area, recreational trails and expanded paved parking for both trailered and passenger vehicles.

The Thermalito Afterbay Outlet has long served as a popular launch site for trailered boats, car-top boats and shoreline fishing. During construction, public access at the site will remain restricted.

Alternative trailered boat launches are available at Riverbend Park, River Reflections RV Park, Vance Avenue Boat Ramp and the Gridley boat ramp. Car-top launches remain available at the Feather River Fish Hatchery, Bedrock Park, Vance Avenue Outlet and the Pacific Heights Weir Ramp. Boaters and floaters are advised to use caution when traveling near the Afterbay Outlet because river flows can vary.

Construction is expected to continue through spring or early summer 2027.

Lake Oroville remains in strong condition for summer recreation. As of July 2, the reservoir stood at 874 feet in elevation with approximately 3.05 million acre-feet of water in storage, or 89 percent of capacity and 114 percent of the historical average.

The Bidwell Canyon and Lime Saddle marinas remain open daily, offering fuel, boat rentals and other visitor services.