Burney is a small mountain town located in northeastern Shasta County, surrounded by forests, rivers, and volcanic landscapes. Named after early settler Samuel Burney, who reportedly died in the area in the mid-1800s, the town developed in the early 20th century as a logging and milling center due to its abundant timber resources.
With the construction of nearby hydroelectric facilities by Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), Burney became a hub for workers and their families. The town also benefited from its location near natural attractions, especially Burney Falls, which President Theodore Roosevelt once called "the Eighth Wonder of the World."
Today, Burney thrives as a gateway to outdoor adventure, drawing visitors for hiking, fishing, and camping in the surrounding Lassen National Forest. Though small in population, it remains an important part of Shasta County’s tourism economy and natural heritage.