Bidwell Park

Bidwell Park is "divided" by Manzanita Avenue. The area west of Manzanita Avenue is referred to as Lower Park and the area to the east is referred to as Middle and Upper Park. The noticeable difference between Lower, Middle and Upper is the terrain. Upper Park is located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. It has steep terrain and contains many rock formations, including the unique Chico Formation sandstone and Lovejoy Basalt rocks. Lower Park is flat and level with a thick canopy of trees which provide ample shade for the visitor.

North Valley Community Donation Fund

We truely appreciate your volunteer time and donation funds! Supporters can now make year round donations to the Park and Greenways thru the North Valley Communtiy Foundation. Healthy Park! Healthy Chico!

Click here to donate now!

Please select Bidwell Park | Chico Parks Division

Caper Acres Master Plan

The City is seeking public comments on the plan to renovate Caper Acres (click on link above). Please forward your comments by email or by phone at 896-7801.

Education and Information Center

The Chico Creek Nature Center's commitment to Bidwell Park education began in the mid-seventies and continues today through its environmental education for all ages, exhibits, wildlife walks and activities. In partnership with the City of Chico's Park Division of the General Services Department, the Center serves as the official information and education center for Bidwell Park, serving the public at large and regional school children. CCNC is located at 1968 E. Eighth Street (next to Cedar Grove). For more information and Center hours, check out their webpage HERE

Recreation

Bidwell Park caters to many recreational past times. For those interested in swimming, the Sycamore Pool, located at the One-Mile Recreation Area, is an uncommon swimming experience, being a concrete pool built around Big Chico Creek. Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend each year at the pool. The pool is closed for weekly cleaning on Thursdays, so no lifeguards are on duty that day.

When swimming in Big Chico Creek, be sure to use caution. Water which may appear to be shallow and/or slow moving can actually be swift and powerful. Don't be a victim! Stay in areas where there is no white water. When possible, swim with friends. Also, as with all other activities, bring enough drinking water to stay hydrated.

Star Gazing

Bidwell Park is home to the Chico Community Observatory dedicated to the memory of Anita Ingrao. Anita passed away in 2014, and inspired docents and visitors while exploring the universe from Bidwell Park. The Observatory is located near Horseshoe Lake and is open weather permitting Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights. The Observatory provides access to the universe through its telescopes for the enjoyment and education of the youth of this community and of the world. Please visit Chico Community Observatory for up-coming events.

Disc Golf

Peregrine Point is an 18-hole advanced disc golf course located in Upper Bidwell Park, with access off Hwy 32 roughly 3 miles east of Chico). The site has stunning views of Chico's Iron Canyon and play occurs in Blue Oak Woodlands spanning areas of lava cap. Peregrine Point is equipped with concrete tee pads and basket style targets. Visit the disc golf page at peregrine-point-bidwell-park for maps, directions, and places to play during wet weather. It is recommended that beginners try out Sherwood Forest at Hooker Oak in Middle Bidwell Park before venturing to Peregrine Point.

Hiking

Hiking in Bidwell Park is a perfect way to spend a day. All trails in Bidwell Park are open to pedestrians. The pedestrian-only Yahi Trail in Upper Park is a recommended visit. Yahi Trail offers the hiker miles of scenic views along Big Chico Creek. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and to bring plenty of drinking water.

Horseback Riding

Horseback riding is yet another common past time in the Park. Because Park trails are mostly multi-use, there are abundant riding opportunities for equestrians. Basic equestrian rules are:

• No horses on Middle and Upper Park trails when closed due to wet conditions
• No riding on Yahi Trail (a pedestrian only trail)
• Keep horses 100 feet away from established picnic areas
• Cross the creek only at established and signed horse crossings

Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is one of the most common activities that takes place in Bidwell Park. There are miles upon miles of trails to ride on. Some of the basic bike rules are:

• No riding on Yahi Trail (a pedestrian only trail)
• No bikes on Middle and Upper Park trails when closed due to wet conditions
• Helmets must be worn by people of all ages when riding off of pavement in Middle and Upper Park

To further ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable time, bring plenty of drinking water and a tire patch kit.

Paragliding

Flying in the park offers beautiful views and great soaring opportunities. Launching is allowed from designated locations along the North Rim and the flying is best with a south wind (5 - 15 mph), typically from March through October. Check out the Bidwell Park Fliers' website HERE for more information on qualifications, rules, permits and guidelines for flying in the Park. For more information contact Jon Stallman, who is the site administrator. Contact Jon (cell phone: +1 (530) 864-5110) to arrange a site intro prior to flying. Be sure to carefully read the Paragliding Rules and Guidelines for Bidwell Park flight.

Permits must be signed in the Public Works Department - Parks Division at 411 Main St. - 3rd floor (open Monday - Friday 8 am to 5 pm).