Recreation

Yosemite National Park may be the most familiar nearby landmark, but it’s only the beginning. Madera is less than two hours from three National Parks. A sampling of events in and around Madera reflect the area’s colorful history: Coursegold Rodeo, Logger’s Jamboree, Sierra Mountaineer Days, Indian Fair Days, and California State Gold Panning Championships, to name a few.

Locally, the city’s seven major parks offer a variety of picnicking and sporting accommodations, and a municipal swimming pool. The par-72 championship Municipal Golf Course hosts a number of tournaments and features banquet facilities. Skydivers and ultralight aircraft pilots need only drive to the municipal airport to indulge their passion.