Lake Oroville Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to the Lake?

Lake Oroville is located in central California, about 50 miles north of Sacramento. For a detailed map and directions to the different marinas, click here to view a map of the Lake Oroville area.

When do I pick up the boat?

You may pick up your boat any time after 8:00 AM on the first day of your rental. In some cases, you may arrange for a “pre-board” on the night before; call us for more information

The boat is due back at the marina at 2:00 PM on the final day of your rental.

How many people are allowed on the boat?

Lake Oroville is a National Recreation Area, and the government rules allow for no more than 12 people on a moving houseboat, no matter the size. Many people “get around” this rule by bringing or renting a powerboat for additional members of their party. Large groups may want to consider renting an additional houseboat.

When the boat is not in motion, there are no restrictions on the number of people you may have on board.

What will the temperatures be like on my trip?

For detailed air and water temperature information, view a month-by-month list of temperatures here.

How difficult is driving a houseboat?

Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. When you reserve your houseboat, we will send you a video or DVD in the mail with a basic overview of houseboat operations. The marina staff will also walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hang of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes.

If you're concerned about your ability to handle the boat, you may arrange for a captain to guide you out of the marina or drive you to a specific destination on the lake.

What is the billing schedule?

At the time of booking, you must pay a deposit to confirm your reservation of the houseboat. Sixty (60) days prior to your trip, the full balance of your rental must be paid. The deposit is held throughout your trip, and then refunded once you return the boat undamaged.

How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?

Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It’s helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you’re most interested in when you call.

Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.

How early do I need to reserve?

Lake Oroville is one of the most popular lakes in California. Some of our boats have been known to book out more than two years in advance. The earlier the better is a good rule to follow, particularly if you have an exact date in mind for your trip, or if you’re planning a trip over a holiday weekend.

However, if you’re flexible with your dates or the exact houseboat model, we can almost always find a trip for you even a few weeks before hand.

Are linens included with my houseboat rental?

Linens are included on all houseboat rentals at Lake Oroville. This will include sheets, pillows, blankets, and bath towels. You will need to provide your own beach towels.

Are pets allowed on my houseboat?

Pets are allowed on the houseboats for a non-refundable $100 fee per pet.

Where is the nearest grocery store so I can stock up before my trip?

There is a Safeway grocery store located about ten minutes away in Paradise. Additionally, the marina has a convenience store for last minute items.

How old do you have to be to rent the houseboats?

The renter needs to be 21 years of age with a valid drivers license.

Do I need a license to operate the houseboats, or is a skipper provided?

There is no special license needed to operate our houseboats. There are rules for operating houseboats on the waterways, and we will explain them to you upon your arrival.

Will I get seasick on a houseboat?

Houseboats are on pontoons and there is very little motion. Seasickness is basically unheard of on fresh water.

What is the best time of year to go houseboating?

It is always a good time to go houseboating! Summer is the most popular and busiest season. Fall offers Indian Summer days and cooler nights. Springtime is good for viewing abundant wildflowers, waterfalls, and wildlife. Winter is favorable for the anglers, when fishing is at its best. And the rates are significantly lower between September and May.

Can I fish from the houseboat?

Yes! Fishing is an excellent past time and a popular activity at Lake Oroville. The variety of fish includes spotted bass, Chinook salmon, catfish and rainbow trout.