Chico City Car Hire

Chico in northern California is a lively college town along Highway 99, known for Bidwell Park – one of the USA's largest urban parks. Two rental companies in northern Chico give you access to a car to explore the Sierra Nevada and Sacramento Valley. Oroville Dam, one of the USA's highest dams, is 35 km to the south and takes about 30 minutes to drive to.

Red Bluff with its historic downtown is 70 km to the north along Highway 99, about 45 minutes' drive. Northern Chico is close to Chico State University – avoid renting during student events when demand increases significantly. Highway 32 heading west takes you to the Coast Range and Tehama County in under an hour.

Check if the rental company has SUVs with four-wheel drive if you plan winter trips toward Lassen Volcanic National Park (approximately 100 km to the east). How far is it to Lassen Volcanic National Park? From northern Chico it's approximately 100 km to the east via Highway 36, which takes about 1.5 hours by car.

Are there rental companies with larger fleets in Chico? The two rental companies in northern Chico have limited fleets – book well in advance, especially during summer months. Can I drive to Sacramento from Chico?

Yes, Sacramento is approximately 145 km to the south on Highway 99, about 1.5 hours' drive.

We compare prices from all major providers at Chico North so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.