Forest Ranch, CA Home for Rent

Forest Ranch, a rural community in the Sierra Nevada foothills north of Chico, offers residents a serene lifestyle with mountain and forest views. Homes are often set deep into the woods, providing a remote feel while still being within a 30-minute drive to Downtown Chico. The neighborhood features larger parcels of land, attracting those seeking more space, with most homes being ranch-style from the late 20th century. A few manufactured homes are also available. Forest Ranch Charter School serves the area, along with highly rated schools in the Chico Unified School District, including Little Chico Creek Elementary, Harry M. Marsh Junior High, and Chico High School. Big Chico Creek winds through the neighborhood, offering hiking and private trails, while the Big Chico Creek Ecological Reserve at the southern edge provides opportunities for wildlife observation, hunting, and fishing. State Route 32, known locally as Deer Creek Highway, connects Forest Ranch to Chico, 15 miles south, though winter snowfall can cause road closures. The neighborhood has a dedicated fire station and volunteer fire department due to an increased risk of fire damage, making fire insurance essential. For shopping and dining, residents travel to Chico, where Deer Creek Highway leads to mainstays like WinCo Foods and Safeway, as well as the city's largest dining district downtown.