Nestled among the northernmost tip of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, this rural community is bordered by the Shasta-Trinity National Forest to the north and the Lassen National Forest to the south, making it a wonderful base for exploring the wilder side of Northern California. Not only are the surrounding creeks and streams a destination for fly-fishers angling for brown and rainbow trout, nearby Shasta Lake provides further opportunities to participate in watersports like boating and swimming. The national parks’ hundreds of miles of trails carve through pine forests and lead up to mountain summits, alpine lakes, and scenic vistas. Within the town itself, you’ll enjoy a variety of museums, theaters, and cultural activities.

Like much of inland Northern California, the seasonal variations in Burney’s climate are moderate. The summer months are warm and sun-filled, with minimal chances of rain, making it a wonderful time for a vacation rental in Burney. If you’re visiting from May through September, day-tripping to nearby Redding for the farmer’s market or the Redding Roots Revival Music Festival in September can make for an excellent break from your nature outings. The shoulder seasons tend to see brisk temperatures and a moderate increase in precipitation, so make sure you pack a light jacket during this time. In winter, expect temperatures that hover around freezing, and occasional snowfall on the valley floor, with much more snow sticking to the surrounding mountains.

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

As the second oldest state park in California, and still one of the more popular destinations in Shasta County, this state park has drawn fishers, hikers, and horseback riders for more than a century. Many people simply come to admire Burney Falls, a high-flow waterfall in the park, which is beautiful year-round and easy to get to from the parking lot.

Day trip to Redding

The university town of Redding, an hour away from Burney by car, makes for an excellent day trip. Crossing the famous Sundial Suspension Bridge into town, you will be met with a youthful city packed with farmer's markets, cafes, and restaurants. The Turtle Bay Exploration Park in the center of town offers a botanical garden, an arboretum, and a museum with national history exhibits.

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Like the world-famous Yellowstone National Park, Lassen Volcanic National Park is home to ancient volcanic formations, jagged mountain peaks, and endless opportunities for exploration. The expansive trail system may lead you past burbling creeks, wildflower meadows, or alpine lakes, or perhaps thermally active regions such as boiling lakes and geysers. Even if you’re not hiking into the wilderness, picnic areas scattered throughout the park let you bask in the serene surroundings.