Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the CARD FAQ Page!
At the Chico Area Recreation & Park District (CARD), we're here to make your experience as enjoyable and seamless as possible. This FAQ page is designed to answer your most common questions. Explore the questions below for quick and helpful answers, and if you need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We're here to help you make the most of all that CARD has to offer!
CARD stands for Chico Area Recreation & Park District. We provide a wide range of recreational programs, classes, events, and facilities to serve the Chico community. From sports leagues and summer camps to park maintenance and special events, CARD aims to enrich the quality of life for everyone in our district.
No, CARD is an independent special district, separate from the City of Chico. While we collaborate with the city on some projects, CARD operates independently with its own board of directors and funding sources.
CARD is governed by a five-member Board of Directors, elected by the community. The board sets policies and provides direction for the district’s operations.
CARD manages a variety of beautiful parks across the Chico area, offering spaces for relaxation, recreation, and community connection. From open fields and picnic areas to playgrounds and walking trails, our parks are designed to provide opportunities for outdoor fun and enjoyment for all ages.
CARD Parks
CARD manages a variety of beautiful parks across the Chico area, offering spaces for relaxation, recreation, and community connection. From open fields and picnic areas to playgrounds and walking trails, our parks are designed to provide opportunities for outdoor fun and enjoyment for all ages.
- Baroni Park
- Chapman Park
- Community Park
- DeGarmo Park
- Emerson Park
- Hancock Park
- Hartley Park
- Hooker Oak Park
- Humboldt Skate Park
- Husa Ranch
- Indigo Park
- Oak Way Park
- Peterson Park
- Rotary Centennial Park
- Rotary Park
- Sycamore Field
- Veterans Memorial Park (formerly Wildwood)
Please note that Bidwell Park, Caper Acres, Children’s Park, the City Plaza, Five-Mile, One-Mile & Sycamore Pool, and Verbena Fields are run by the City of Chico. You can learn more about the City of Chico Parks Department here or call 530-896-7800.
CARD Recreation Centers
CARD’s recreation centers are vibrant hubs for community activities, programs, and events. Equipped with modern amenities, these spaces host everything from fitness classes and youth programs to weddings and proms. Whether you’re participating in a sports league, attending a workshop, or planning a private event, our recreation centers provide a welcoming and versatile environment to meet the needs of our community.
- CARD Community Center
- Chico Community Observatory
- Chico Creek Nature Center
- Dorothy F. Johnson Center
- Lakeside Pavilion
- PV Rec Center & Pool
CARD is primarily funded through property taxes, program fees, and facility rentals. Additional support comes from grants, sponsorships, and community partnerships.
Our office is open Mondays from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM and Tuesday–Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We’re closed on major holidays. You can find us at 545 Vallombrosa Avenue, Chico, CA 95926.
CARD serves the greater Chico area, including most of the City of Chico and some unincorporated areas of Butte County.
You can reach us at 530-895-4711, email at info@chicorec.gov, or visit our office at 545 Vallombrosa Ave, Chico, CA 95926.
You can follow us on Facebook and/or Instagram, sign up for our monthly e-newsletter, read through The Play Guide for a comprehensive list of programs and activities, or visit our website for the latest updates.
