By North State Free Coast Syndicate Staff

For the third consecutive year, Lake Oroville has reached full capacity—an unprecedented milestone for the 57-year-old reservoir and a major win for outdoor enthusiasts across Northern California.

Situated about 70 miles north of Sacramento in Butte County, the lake hit its 900-foot elevation mark on Friday morning, signaling a total volume of 3.4 million acre-feet of water. The milestone follows a moderately wet winter and strong snowmelt in the Sierra, which continues to feed reservoirs across the state. As of this week, California’s major reservoirs are at 116% of the average for this time of year.

This marks the first time in Lake Oroville’s history that it’s reached full pool three years in a row. And with Memorial Day weekend underway, the timing couldn’t be better for locals and travelers looking to enjoy boating, fishing, paddleboarding, jet skiing, and other lake activities.

The lake is a centerpiece of the State Water Project, delivering drinking water to 27 million Californians, but it’s also a key destination for recreation—especially as water levels return to normal following the severe drought just four years ago.

Shasta Lake, the state’s largest reservoir, also reached capacity this spring, adding to the momentum for a strong summer season on the water statewide.

Officials still encourage water conservation, citing California’s long history of weather extremes. But with the lake full and the weather warming up, Lake Oroville is set to become a hot spot for summer fun once again.