Skip to main content

Gailey Luther DeGarmo

May contain: arbour, garden, nature, outdoors, gate, amusement park, fun, and theme park
DeGarmo Park Entrance
May contain: architecture, building, outdoors, shelter, grass, plant, house, housing, porch, nature, park, tree, lawn, fir, and patio
DeGarmo Park Pavilion
May contain: outdoor play area, outdoors, play area, and person
DeGarmo Park Playground
May contain: grass, plant, path, sidewalk, nature, outdoors, park, walkway, architecture, building, shelter, tree, house, housing, patio, bench, and furniture
DeGarmo Park Picnic Area
May contain: arbour, garden, nature, outdoors, gate, amusement park, fun, and theme park
May contain: architecture, building, outdoors, shelter, grass, plant, house, housing, porch, nature, park, tree, lawn, fir, and patio
May contain: outdoor play area, outdoors, play area, and person
May contain: grass, plant, path, sidewalk, nature, outdoors, park, walkway, architecture, building, shelter, tree, house, housing, patio, bench, and furniture

DeGarmo Park is named in honor of Gailey Luther DeGarmo, following the wishes of his son, Robert "Bob" DeGarmo. Bob, a lifelong Chico resident, was passionate about giving back to his community. After a farming accident left him paralyzed at age 17, he remained dedicated to helping others and creating opportunities for future generations.

In the late 1990s, Bob sold 24 acres of his family’s land to the Chico Area Recreation & Park District at a greatly reduced price, ensuring that a park could be built near the elementary school he once attended. His vision was simple but powerful—to create "a place for kids to play."

Thanks to Bob’s generosity, DeGarmo Park has become a beloved community space, featuring sports fields, walking paths, and recreational amenities for all to enjoy. His legacy continues to bring joy to families, just as he intended.