California State University at Chico, established in 1887, is ranked fourth among the California State University campuses. It has over 15,000 undergraduates and is the second oldest CSU campus. Located in Chico, a Californian small town, the campus is gorgeous with its lawns, trees, pretty fall-leaves and brick architecture. It has a creek that courses through the campus and the nearby, equally peaceful Bidwell Park. The university goes beyond its “party school” tag, with an optimal student-teacher ratio and more than 200 student organizations. The Wildcat Recreation Center is well-equipped with more than your average gym facilities. The downtown area is close to the school and buzzing with activity, ensuring that you really live it up! Its notable alumni include singer Mat Kearney, short-story-writer Raymond Carver and actress Amanda Detmer. Chico State, with its scenic views and Wildcat pride, is a solid and affordable option within the CSU system.