Tehama Wildlife Area

Tehama Wildlife Area is approximately 44,500 acres of grassland, oak woodland, and chaparral. There are also rugged canyons throughout the area. This area is a winter range for black-tailed deer. Wild pigs and turkeys are also found here. Among the birds that may be seen are bald and golden eagles, prairie and peregrine falcons, and other birds of prey. In addition to hunting and camping, this area is popular for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.

Facilities

The primary staffed location on the property is the Headquarters Office adjacent to the Plum Creek Road parking area. Public restrooms are also available in this area. Additionally, informational kiosks with area maps are posted in locations throughout the Wildlife Area.

Camping is primarily at Fischer Campground and Facht Place Campground. Access to these areas are only by unimproved or gravel roadway. There are also several "jeep trails" which are only suitable for off-road vehicles, and numerous dirt foot trails. Most trails are not accessible to mobility-impaired persons.

Seasonal gates throughout the Wildlife Area may be closed by CDFW staff to restrict access to certain areas on a seasonal basis. Contact the Wildlife Area at (530) 597-2201 for current closure information.

Accessibility

There are no significant accessibility improvements on this property. Visitors may contact the Wildlife Area at (530) 597-2201 for detailed information.

Connectivity

There is very limited cellular phone service available on this property. There is no public Wi-Fi service available.

Maps and Guides

• Tehama Wildlife Area Map (PDF)

Learn more about Tehama Wildlife Area and its history, wildlife and habitat.

History

The foothill range of eastern Tehama County has been utilized for livestock since the early 1800s. The area is strictly a winter and spring range, yet for many years homesteaders and small landowners ran their stock year-long.

Until recent times, extreme damage to the range occurred during adverse climatic conditions. To further exploit the resource, cattle, sheep, horses, goats and hogs were raised making possible the use of every forage species. The result was significant soil loss, and the dominant plant stands were broken up and replaced by introduced annuals, weedy herbs, and browse species. The property was designated as a wildlife area by the Fish and Game Commission in 1968.

Notice: Visitors are responsible for knowing and complying with all regulations pertaining to the use of CDFW-managed lands.

Refer to the Waterfowl, Upland Game, and Public Use Regulations (PDF) booklet for both statewide and property-specific regulations.

Hunting

Hunting Pass Type C: Tehama Wildlife Area does not require the purchase of a hunting pass for entry. Entry permits and/or passes or special drawing may be required for hunting on some Type C wildlife areas.

The following game may be seasonally pursued at Tehama Wildlife Area:

Hunters are responsible for knowing and complying with all Bird Hunting and Land Use Regulations, Mammal Hunting Regulations, and all other rules and regulations in effect at Tehama Wildlife Area.

• License Items and Fees for Hunters

Fishing

A valid CDFW fishing license is required. Check fishing regulations for current licensing fees. Licenses are not available at Gray Lodge Wildlife Area and must be purchased before arrival.

• Freshwater Sport Fishing Regulations

Rules and Visitor Use

Be aware of the following rules while visiting Tehama Wildlife Area:

• Dogs must be under owner's control at all times
• No drones allowed without a Special Use Permit (PDF)
• Camping is allowed at designated campgrounds

In addition to the above, visitors are responsible for knowing and complying with all Rules and Regulations in effect at Tehama Wildlife Area.

For specific questions regarding use of this land, call the Headquarters Office at (530) 597-2201.