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Best Waterfalls in California

5 top-rated waterfalls in California. Explore stunning waterfalls perfect for hiking, photography, and nature experiences.

Burney Falls (Burney, 4.9 from 2,098 reviews), Yosemite Falls (Yosemite Valley, 4.9 from 1,234 reviews) and McArthur-Burney Falls (Burney, 4.8 from 892 reviews) are the most-reviewed waterfalls in California. The full ranking below covers 5 spots, ordered by how many people have reviewed them, each with photos, ratings and directions.

HikingPhotographySwimming (where permitted)Nature viewingPicnicking

Top Waterfalls in California

Top 10 on the map

Locations approximate to pin

14.9(2,098)

Burney Falls

Waterfall · Burney, California

Camping nearby

President Theodore Roosevelt called it "the eighth wonder of the world" — Burney Falls is a stunning 129-foot waterfall fed by underground springs that produce 100 million gallons of water daily, maintaining its flow even in the driest months. Located in the 910-acre McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, the falls were designated a National Natural Landmark in 1954. The park offers camping, cabin rentals, boating and kayaking on Lake Britton, swimming, fishing, and 5 miles of streamside trails.

24.9(1,234)

Yosemite Falls

Waterfall · Yosemite Valley, California

Camping nearbyTallest in North AmericaThree-tiered Falls

Iconic 2,425-foot waterfall in Yosemite National Park, featuring upper fall, middle cascades, and lower fall. Best viewing in spring during snowmelt.

Hiking Trails · Viewing Areas · Photography Spots · Visitor Center

34.8(892)

McArthur-Burney Falls

Waterfall · Burney, California

Camping nearby129-foot WaterfallYear-round Flow

Spectacular 129-foot waterfall with year-round flow of 100 million gallons daily. Features hiking trails, swimming areas, and camping facilities.

Hiking Trails · Swimming Area · Camping · Visitor Center

44.8(62)

Feather Falls Waterfall

Temp Closed

Waterfall · Oroville, California

A waterfall in Oroville, California.

Phantom Falls

Waterfall · California

Intermittent waterfall at North Table Mountain. There is a shallow cave behind it at the bottom of the canyon, and an abandoned mine shaft that has been filled in.

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