Verbena Fields

A Nature Revival Story

Tucked away at the corner of East 1st Avenue and Verbena Lane in North Chico, Verbena Fields is a 17-acre touch of California being brought back to life. Once a floodplain for Lindo Channel before becoming a gravel mine, this unique space is now transforming into something beautiful again - a restored native habitat that tells a story.

What makes this park special is its deep connection to the Mechoopda people, who are actively involved in bringing back the plants and ecosystems that thrived here for centuries. It's not just a park - it's a living classroom where ecological heritage comes alive.

Get Your Hands Dirty

Feel like being part of something meaningful? Every Friday, the park welcomes volunteers to join in land management activities. During summer, these sessions run from 7:30 to 11:30 a.m. (smart move to beat that scorching valley heat!).

If you're curious about native plants, don't miss the Wildtending Plant Walks held on the last Tuesday of each month, starting about two hours before sundown. These walks offer a fantastic blend of learning and twilight tranquility.

Ancient Practices, Modern Relevance

One of the most fascinating aspects of Verbena Fields is witnessing cultural burning events - a practice rooted in indigenous wisdom about caring for the land. These controlled burns aren't just about fire management; they're about honoring traditional ecological knowledge that kept these landscapes healthy for thousands of years.

Your Experience Here

Regardless of whether you're taking a peaceful stroll, watching birds flit between native shrubs, or simply sitting quietly among plants that have called this region home for centuries, Verbena Fields offers a different kind of park experience. The trails are gentle, the setting is calm, and there's always something new to discover as restoration efforts continue to unfold.

It's a place where you can witness ecological healing in real-time while connecting with the natural beauty that makes Chico special.