
University Farm CSU Chico
A living laboratory for CSU Chico agriculture students, offering fresh produce, local meat, and hands-on learning.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
See students in action

University Farm CSU Chico
Best Time
See students in action
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A living laboratory for CSU Chico agriculture students, offering fresh produce, local meat, and hands-on learning.
"Excellent meat, plus you are supporting young people that are trying to better themselves."

🎯 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!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Organic Vegetable Project
University Farm
Fresh, certified organic produce grown by students. Sign up for a weekly CSA box!

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
Farm Store/Sales Area
Purchase high-quality, locally raised meat directly from the farm. Supports student learning.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Support Student Farmers
Farm Fresh & Educational
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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!
🐝 Bee Aware!
Aggressive bees can be present. Be mindful and avoid disturbing hives.
👃 Embrace the Farm Smell
The manure pit smell is part of the authentic farm experience.
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.
🥕 Get Your Veggies
Join the CSA for fresh, organic produce boxes. A taste of student-grown goodness!
🐝 Bee Aware!
Aggressive bees can be present. Be mindful and avoid disturbing hives.
👃 Embrace the Farm Smell
The manure pit smell is part of the authentic farm experience.
🚶♀️ Easy Access
The farm is generally open and accessible, with welcoming cows along the fence.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Absolutely! Kids love seeing the animals and learning about where food comes from. It's a great educational outing for families.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you can purchase fresh, locally grown organic vegetables through their CSA program and high-quality meat directly from the farm.
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.
The farm typically offers a selection of beef and pork, raised by students. The quality is often praised by visitors.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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
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.
🧑🌾 Aspiring Agriculturalists
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.
🥕 Foodies & Local Supporters
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Agricultural Education
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.
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.
Farm-Fresh Products: Meat & Produce
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.
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.
Navigating Your Farm Visit
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.
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.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit