1. DeGarmo Dog Park
📍 Address: 199 Leora Ct, Chico, CA 95973 🕒 Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
DeGarmo Dog Park is one of Chico’s most popular off-leash areas, offering a spacious fenced-in zone where dogs can run free and socialize. The terrain is all dirt, and there are a few shaded spots to escape the sun though shade is limited on hot days.
The park is equipped with water fountains, faucets, and even the occasional kiddie pool left by thoughtful visitors. Seating is available with benches and a couple picnic tables, making it comfortable for pet parents too. While there’s no separate area for small dogs, the crowd tends to be friendly and well-mannered.
It’s a convenient stop just off the highway with plenty of parking and a welcoming vibe for both locals and travelers.
2. Bidwell Park
📍 Address: Petersen Memorial Way, Chico, CA 95926 🕒 Hours: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Bidwell Park is one of the largest municipal parks in the country, and a well-loved piece of Chico’s identity. Spanning over 3,600 acres, the park offers a wide variety of natural terrain where dogs and their humans can get outside and enjoy some open space.
The park is divided by Manzanita Avenue into two distinct zones. In Lower Park, dogs are welcome off leash from 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.. In Upper Park, the north side of Upper Park Road allows off-leash access throughout the day, as long as dogs are under clear voice command.
Keep in mind that while much of the park is dog-friendly, pets are not permitted in swim areas like One-Mile and Five-Mile, or certain parts of Upper Park’s water spots. With so many trails and entrances to choose from, it’s a good idea to browse the city’s website before heading out to find a route that fits your energy level.
The park’s natural beauty comes with a few precautions: be aware of seasonal hazards like rattlesnakes, ticks, and toxic plants, especially during warmer months.
3. Indigo Dog Park
📍 Address: Springfield Dr &, Concord Ave, Chico, CA 🕒 Hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Indigo Park, located at the corner of Springfield Drive and Concord Avenue, is a small, modern neighborhood park that includes a designated dog area. It’s not meant to compete with larger parks like DeGarmo or Bidwell, but for locals looking for a quick, convenient off-leash option, it gets the job done.
The dog section is fully fenced with a double-gated entrance, and the ground is mostly sandy dirt — not ideal for lounging, but fine for a few zoomies and some sniffing around. It’s especially good for smaller or low-energy dogs who might feel overwhelmed at busier parks. Several reviewers appreciate that the area tends to be calm and clean, with less of the chaos you might find elsewhere. One person even called it a “perfect spot for small dogs to get some freedom away from the crazy dogs at other parks.”
That said, the park isn’t without its downsides. There’s very little shade, no restroom facilities, and the size of the dog area might feel underwhelming to anyone used to more developed off-leash parks. It’s not a destination park by any means, but more of a convenient corner for quick outings. Think suburban minimalism — not Central Park vibes.
Still, it’s a nice addition to the neighborhood. The landscaping is tidy, the signs are clear and new, and it generally feels safe and well-maintained. If you live nearby and need a quick spot for your pup to get some off-leash time, Indigo Park is a practical little option.
🐾 Final Thoughts on Chico Dog Parks
Whether you’re looking for wide open trails, a bustling social scene for your pup, or just a quiet corner to stretch your dog’s legs, Chico offers a variety of dog park experiences to match different needs and energy levels. From the spacious, well-loved DeGarmo Park to the scenic trails of Bidwell and the convenience of Indigo Park, there’s something here for every kind of dog and dog owner.
Wherever you go, just remember to bring water, pick up after your pet, and be mindful of the rules at each location. And if we missed your favorite local dog spot, let us know — we’re always looking to sniff out more great places!
