Chico has off-leash options in Lower Bidwell Park (5:30 to 8:30 AM), along the north side of Upper Park Road, and at DeGarmo Dog Park, plus off-leash hours in CARD neighborhood parks. Rules differ by park, so check which agency runs the one you are visiting.
Where can dogs run off leash in Bidwell Park?
Bidwell Park is run by the City of Chico, not CARD. In Lower Park, dogs may be off leash from 5:30 to 8:30 AM and must be leashed at other times. Along the north side of Upper Park Road, dogs may be off leash anytime. Off-leash dogs must stay under voice control. Dogs are not allowed in the water at the One-Mile or Five-Mile swimming areas or at the swimming holes in Upper Park. Upper Park has rattlesnakes, insect nests and thorny plants. For questions, call the City Parks Division at 530-896-7800.
What are the CARD park off-leash rules?
- Community Park: Heffren Field, 7 AM to 11 PM.
- DeGarmo Park: the dog park and basin inside the split rail below the pavilion, 7 AM to 11 PM. It has a sand-and-dirt play area, picnic tables and lawn chairs, and a leash is required outside the dog area.
- Hooker Oak Park: Hooker Oak and Rex Murphy Fields, 7 AM to noon.
- Veterans Memorial Park: no off-leash times.
- Neighborhood parks: every day, 5:30 to 8:30 AM.
Which Chico patios welcome dogs?
From Explore Butte County: Parkside Tap House has a large outdoor area and treats for dogs, Tres Hombres allows dogs on the patio with a leash, and The Rawbar Restaurant and Sushi has a patio with views of City Plaza. Patio policies change, so call ahead.
Where else can I go with my dog nearby?
North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve in Oroville is open dawn to dusk and popular with dog walkers, with a leash required. Lake Oroville has patio boat trips to coves, and a flotation device is recommended. Paradise Lake does not allow dogs.
Why does this matter when choosing a home?
If daily dog walks drive your search, compare each home's distance to the park you will actually use. I can pull listings by that distance. Call or text me at 707-672-6549. Happy to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs be off leash in Bidwell Park?
In Lower Park from 5:30 to 8:30 AM, and anytime along the north side of Upper Park Road, under voice control.
Is there a dog park in Chico?
Yes. DeGarmo Dog Park has a sand-and-dirt off-leash area, 7 AM to 11 PM.
Can my dog swim at the swimming holes?
Not at the One-Mile or Five-Mile swimming areas or the Upper Park swimming holes.
Are dogs allowed at Paradise Lake?
No.
Rules and hours change. Confirm with the City of Chico or CARD before you go. Listings compiled from public sources.
Sources: