Fall River Mills Between River Landscapes and History

Fall River Mills represents two distinct travel interests: its spring-fed river landscape and the history of the region. When exploring the town and its surroundings, points of interest range from a historic landmark to kayaking opportunities and a measured trail distance. If you’re looking for a hotel in Fall River Mills, these themes can help you choose a destination that suits your interests.

River Landscapes and Nature

The Fall River is one of California’s major spring-fed rivers, fed by a series of large springs. It meanders for about 15 miles through Fall River Valley before joining the Pit River near Fall River Mills. The river is known for its “Blue-Ribbon” wild trout fishing. About 100 cfs is diverted through Fall River Mills to benefit fish, habitats, and recreation along the lower river.

The Fall River Mills AG Unit covers about 463 acres of forest and grassland at Fall River Lake. The Fall River Mills Ecological Reserve is on the western side of Fall River Mills, at the intersection of Curve Street and Highway 299.

Local History at the Fort Crook Museum

The Lockhart Ferry is a designated historic landmark in Fall River Mills. Samuel Lockhart established it in 1856 as part of the first wagon road between Yreka and Red Bluff. Local history is also reflected in the Fort Crook Museum’s collections and historic buildings.

The museum’s main building features exhibits of items from the region and houses a library of historical documents. The collection also includes baskets and artworks of Indigenous peoples, as well as a dugout canoe. The Pittville Schoolhouse was built in 1884 and moved to its current location at the Fort Crook Museum in 1984, a hundred years later.

The Fall River Mills Jail was built in 1936 by the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and served the Fall River Mills area until 1956. The museum also has a working blacksmith shop. The visitor address is 43030 Fort Crook Museum Road, Fall River Mills, California 96028.

Trails and Activities on the Water

The Fall River Lake Day Use Walk extends 0.7 miles from the day-use area to the end of the gravel road; the round trip is 1.4 miles. Trail conditions can change, so check the trail’s status before setting out.

Big Lake, near Fall River Mills, is suitable for fishing and birdwatching and offers a wildlife-rich setting. Pit River Campground is also nearby, in eastern Shasta County. Its facilities include a kayak launch and an accessible fishing pier.

Another way to get out on the water is in the area around Horr Pond: you can kayak across the pond to the headwaters, where Jashee Creek flows from clear, calm springs. Nature and recreation options range from wildlife watching and fishing at Big Lake to the campground’s facilities and a kayak trip toward the headwaters.

Discover more destinations: Lakehead-Lakeshore, Shasta Lake, Anderson, Redding, Burney.

View the broader travel guide: Shasta.