University Farm (CSU Chico) - Image 1
1 / 3

University Farm CSU Chico

4.8
·88 reviews·Chico, United States

A living laboratory for CSU Chico agriculture students, offering fresh produce, local meat, and hands-on learning.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

See students in action

CrowdLow
Loading map...
University Farm (CSU Chico) - Image 1

University Farm CSU Chico

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

See students in action

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A living laboratory for CSU Chico agriculture students, offering fresh produce, local meat, and hands-on learning.

4.8
(88 reviews)

"Excellent meat, plus you are supporting young people that are trying to better themselves."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Buy Local Meat

Support student farmers by purchasing excellent quality meat raised right here.

🥕 Get Your Veggies

Join the CSA for fresh, organic produce boxes. A taste of student-grown goodness!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Organic Vegetable Project

Organic Vegetable Project

University Farm

Fresh, certified organic produce grown by students. Sign up for a weekly CSA box!

Livestock Encounters

Livestock Encounters

Various Pens and Pastures

See cows, pigs, and other farm animals. A hit with kids and a reminder of agricultural roots.

Local Meat Sales

Local Meat Sales

Farm Store/Sales Area

Purchase high-quality, locally raised meat directly from the farm. Supports student learning.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Support Student Farmers

The University Farm is a hands-on learning space for CSU Chico students in agriculture. Buying produce or meat directly supports their education and provides fresh, local goods. It's a great way to connect with the community and taste the results of student dedication. TikTok

Farm Fresh & Educational

This isn't just a farm; it's a living laboratory. Visitors can see a variety of livestock and crops, offering a unique glimpse into agricultural practices. It's an accessible way to learn about where food comes from, especially for families. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
See students in action
Crowd
Low
When
Saturday Mornings
Why
CSA pickup & market
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

You will be surprised to know about THIS university 💯🎓🇺🇸 Comment “Chico” to get the guide in your detail 👇🏻 I recently visited California State University, Chico, where I got to reconnect with my alma mater! I had the chance to talk with Abi Jacob, a masters in computer science student, who shared some fantastic insights about CSU, Chico. For international students, CSU Chico is a great place...
yudi.j
343 likes • 25.9K views

🎯 Buy Local Meat

Support student farmers by purchasing excellent quality meat raised right here. Reddit

🥕 Get Your Veggies

Join the CSA for fresh, organic produce boxes. A taste of student-grown goodness! TikTok

The best classes don’t just teach; they transform. Name one Chico State class that has changed the way you see the world. 🌎🐾 #CollegeLife #ChicoState #CSU #CollegeStudent #CollegeLifestyle #CampusLife #DreamSchool #College #University #UniversityLife #California #Chico
chicostate
736 likes • 35.6K views
Meet our Organic Vegetable Project Coordinator Scott Grist! The Organic Vegetable Project is a 3-acre certified organic vegetable plot at the CSU, Chico University Farm. This includes a CSA program for students, staff, faculty, and members of the public to sign up and receive weekly boxes of organic produce from the OVP. A large portion of the produce from the OVP also goes to the Wildcat Food Pa...
csuchicoregenag
31 likes • 938 views

🐝 Bee Aware!

Aggressive bees can be present. Be mindful and avoid disturbing hives. Reddit

👃 Embrace the Farm Smell

The manure pit smell is part of the authentic farm experience. Reddit

reddit.com

I want to buy local meat only

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Buy Local Meat

Support student farmers by purchasing excellent quality meat raised right here. Reddit

🥕 Get Your Veggies

Join the CSA for fresh, organic produce boxes. A taste of student-grown goodness! TikTok

🐝 Bee Aware!

Aggressive bees can be present. Be mindful and avoid disturbing hives. Reddit

👃 Embrace the Farm Smell

The manure pit smell is part of the authentic farm experience. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access

The farm is generally open and accessible, with welcoming cows along the fence. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(88 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors often praise the University Farm for its excellent quality meat and the valuable hands-on experience it provides for CSU Chico students. While most find the facility and staff great, some note concerns about animal living conditions and aggressive bees. The farm offers a unique connection to local agriculture and student learning.

"Excellent meat, plus you are supporting young people that are trying to better themselves"

bob timm

"We bought meat here and it was NOT good 🤢"

Todd

"Great Facility and Staff. We visited for CSUC Swine Day and had a great time."

Jim Leonard

What People Like

Excellent meat quality
Great learning environment
Supporting students

What People Dislike

Animal pen conditions
Aggressive bees

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The University Farm is located just outside the main campus. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available on-site. Many visitors use GPS or mapping apps to find the specific entrance. TikTok

While direct public transport routes might be limited, you can typically reach the main CSU Chico campus via local bus services and then potentially walk or take a short ride-share to the farm. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, if you are coming from the main campus or nearby areas, biking or walking is a pleasant option. There are often bike racks available at the farm. TikTok

The farm is generally accessible during daylight hours for viewing livestock and grounds. Specific sales or program hours may vary, so it's best to check their official website or social media for the most current information.

Yes, the University Farm can be a great day trip destination from Sacramento. The drive is typically around 1.5 to 2 hours, making it a feasible excursion for a few hours of exploration and shopping.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, general admission to walk around and view the farm grounds and animals is typically free. Special events or tours might have associated costs. Reddit

Hours for meat and produce sales, including CSA pickups, can vary. It's highly recommended to check the University Farm's official website or their social media pages for the most up-to-date sales hours and availability. TikTok

The Organic Vegetable Project offers a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program where members sign up to receive weekly boxes of fresh, seasonal produce grown by students. You can typically sign up online or at the farm. TikTok

The farm occasionally hosts events like Swine Day or other agricultural demonstrations. Keep an eye on their announcements for any upcoming opportunities to engage more deeply with the farm's activities. Reddit

While you can often see animals from the road or fence line, it's best to visit during daylight hours when staff and students are present for a more complete experience. Access to specific buildings or sales areas will be limited to operating hours.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can expect to see a variety of livestock, including cows, pigs, and potentially other animals depending on the season and student projects. The cows along the fenceline are often a highlight for visitors. Reddit

Absolutely! Kids love seeing the animals and learning about where food comes from. It's a great educational outing for families. Reddit

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you'll be on uneven terrain. Dress for the weather, and consider clothes you don't mind getting a little dirty. Reddit

Restroom facilities are typically available, especially near the main farm buildings or sales areas. It's always a good idea to check upon arrival.

Yes, photography is generally welcome. It's a picturesque setting, especially with the animals and crops. Just be respectful of students and their work. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, you can purchase fresh, locally grown organic vegetables through their CSA program and high-quality meat directly from the farm. TikTokReddit

There are no on-site restaurants or cafes. The focus is on farm-fresh products for sale. You'll need to venture into Chico for dining options. TikTok

The farm typically offers a selection of beef and pork, raised by students. The quality is often praised by visitors. Reddit

While there aren't designated picnic areas, you might be able to find a quiet spot to enjoy a packed lunch. However, the primary draw is purchasing and enjoying the farm's products. TikTok

Chico offers a variety of dining options, from casual cafes to sit-down restaurants. The main downtown area near CSU Chico campus has many choices. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The fields of crops, the grazing cows along the fence, and the student-run vegetable plots offer great photo opportunities. Capture the rustic charm and the vibrant produce. TikTok

Yes, photographing the animals is a popular activity. Just maintain a safe distance and be respectful of their space and the students working with them. Reddit

Drone usage policies can vary and may require special permission. It's best to check with the farm management directly before flying a drone on the property.

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for farm photography. Mid-day can be harsh, but good for capturing the activity of students. TikTok

Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, avoid intrusive photography of students without their consent and be mindful of any operational areas that might be restricted for safety reasons.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The University Farm is a fantastic destination for families. Children will be delighted to see a variety of farm animals up close, from cows to pigs. It's an engaging way to teach them about where their food comes from in a fun, interactive setting. Reddit

Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a bit of walking. The open spaces allow kids to explore, and the chance to purchase fresh produce or meat adds a rewarding element to the visit. Just keep an eye out for any potential bee activity and ensure children maintain a safe distance from the animals. Reddit

🧑‍🌾 Aspiring Agriculturalists

For students interested in agriculture, the University Farm offers an unparalleled hands-on learning environment. The direct involvement in crop cultivation and animal care provides practical skills that are invaluable for future careers. Reddit

Engage with the students and staff to learn more about their projects. The Organic Vegetable Project and livestock management programs are prime examples of the applied learning opportunities available. Consider exploring the CSA program to directly support these student-led initiatives. TikTok

🥕 Foodies & Local Supporters

If you're passionate about fresh, local food, the University Farm is a must-visit. The opportunity to purchase high-quality meat and certified organic produce directly from the source is a major draw. Reddit

Joining the CSA program for the Organic Vegetable Project is a great way to consistently enjoy seasonal bounty. Supporting these student-run operations means you're not only getting delicious food but also contributing to agricultural education. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Agricultural Education

The CSU Chico University Farm is more than just a place to buy produce; it's a vital component of the university's College of Agriculture. Here, students gain invaluable hands-on experience in a real-world setting, learning everything from crop management to animal husbandry. This practical application of knowledge is a key differentiator, offering undergrads more direct involvement than many larger institutions. Reddit

The farm encompasses a variety of operations, including the Organic Vegetable Project (OVP), which supplies fresh produce through a CSA program, and livestock management for beef and swine. These student-led initiatives not only educate but also contribute to the local food system and provide a source of income that reinvests into the program. TikTok

Visitors can witness this educational ecosystem in action, seeing students actively engaged in farming tasks. It's a unique opportunity to connect with the source of your food and appreciate the dedication of the next generation of agricultural professionals. TikTok

Farm-Fresh Products: Meat & Produce

One of the most popular aspects of visiting the University Farm is the opportunity to purchase high-quality, locally raised meat and certified organic produce. The farm's meat sales, particularly beef and pork, are frequently praised for their excellent quality and the satisfaction of supporting student endeavors. Reddit

The Organic Vegetable Project (OVP) is a cornerstone of the farm's produce offerings. Through its Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, members receive weekly boxes filled with seasonal vegetables grown with organic practices. This direct connection to the harvest ensures peak freshness and supports sustainable agriculture. TikTok

When visiting, be sure to inquire about current availability for both meat and produce. These offerings are a direct result of the students' hard work and provide a tangible way for the community to support agricultural education. Reddit

Navigating Your Farm Visit

Visiting the CSU Chico University Farm is generally a straightforward and enjoyable experience. The farm is designed to be accessible, with clear pathways and opportunities to view animals from designated areas. For those driving, parking is typically available on-site. Reddit

When it comes to what to wear, comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the terrain can be uneven. Dressing in layers is also advisable, as farm weather can change. It's also wise to be prepared for the authentic farm environment, which includes natural scents like manure. Reddit

While general access to view the grounds is free, be aware of potential bee activity, especially during warmer months. Visitors are advised to be mindful and avoid disturbing any hives. Overall, a visit is a relaxed, educational outing, perfect for a few hours of exploration. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2