Mill Creek Preserve

Mill Creek Preserve is a 2,540-acre nature preserve located in Shasta County, Northern California. The preserve protects a significant stretch of Mill Creek, a tributary of the Sacramento River, and encompasses a variety of habitats including mixed conifer forests, oak woodlands, riparian corridors, and chaparral. The preserve's geography is defined by steep canyon walls and river terraces that provide excellent water quality vital for salmonid populations, especially the threatened Central Valley spring-run Chinook salmon. Mill Creek Preserve's ecology supports an abundance of wildlife, such as black bears, mountain lions, river otters, and a diversity of bird species including bald eagles and osprey. Historically, the area was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Wintu, who relied on the creek’s resources for sustenance and cultural activities. The preserve was established through a partnership between the Nature Conservancy and local stakeholders to ensure long-term conservation and stewardship of critical aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Recreation at Mill Creek Preserve focuses on low-impact activities like hiking, birdwatching, fishing, and wildlife photography. Visitors can explore numerous trails that meander through scenic forests and along the creek, offering opportunities to observe spawning salmon during the fall months. The preserve is less developed and offers a quiet, restorative experience for visitors looking to connect with nature in a relatively undisturbed environment. Its location, just east of Interstate 5 and near the town of Redding, makes it accessible for day trips.