Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park is a popular tourist destination located in Chico, California.


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Summary

The mansion was built in 1865 by John Bidwell, who was a pioneer, politician, and philanthropist. The mansion is open to the public for guided tours, which take visitors through the 26 rooms of the house and provide insight into the life and times of John Bidwell.

There are many reasons to visit Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park. One reason is the historical significance of the site. John Bidwell was an important figure in early California history, and his mansion is a well-preserved example of the Victorian era. Additionally, the mansion is surrounded by beautiful grounds and gardens, which offer a peaceful and scenic setting for visitors to enjoy.

Some specific points of interest to see at Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park include the mansion itself, which features many original furnishings and decorations from the Victorian era. There is also a carriage house and a visitor center, which features exhibits and displays related to the history of the mansion and its surroundings.

Interesting facts about Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park include that it was the first home in Northern California to have running water and gas lighting. Additionally, John Bidwell was a staunch abolitionist and played a key role in the Underground Railroad, helping many escaped slaves find freedom in California.

The best time of year to visit Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park is during the spring and summer months when the gardens are in full bloom. Additionally, the mansion is open year-round, and there are special events and activities held throughout the year, such as holiday tours and concerts.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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