Chowchilla is a city in Madera County, California, United States. [3] The city's population was 19,039 at the 2020 census. [4] Chowchilla is located 16 miles (26 km) northwest of Madera, [5] at an elevation of 240 feet (73 m). [3] The city is the location of two prisons: Central California Women's Facility and Valley State Prison.
Chowchilla is a rural city in Central California, with one of its greatest features being its location. The community is located between Fresno and Merced, with nearby pulls to the Sierra Nevada Mountains, the Pacific Coastline, Yosemite National Forest, and the Bay Area.
In 1976, gunmen stormed a school bus carrying 26 children – ages 5 to 14 – and their bus driver in Chowchilla, California. As part of a ransom plot, they drove the hostages into a rock quarry ...
‘Chowchilla’ details how 26 kids were buried alive in California - CNN
California witnessed a horrifying incident when 26 schoolchildren and their bus driver were abducted near Chowchilla in Madera County. Although the survivors managed to escape after spending several hours in captivity, the ensuing investigation indicated that Frederick Woods, James Schoenfeld, and Richard Schoenfeld were involved in the crime. ’48 Hours: Remembering the Chowchilla Kidnapping ...
Chowchilla: Directed by Paul Solet. With Taylor Rusch Box, Tate McMillan, Mike Derum, Alexander Ray. Go behind the headlines to explore the strangest mass kidnapping in history, with exclusive interviews from those who lived through it.
Chowchilla, located in California, is a small city full of charm and interesting activities. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a weekend, there are plenty of fun things to see and do. From parks to local shops, this little town has something for everyone. You’ll love the friendly atmosphere and the unique spots you can visit.
25 Best & Fun Things to Do in Chowchilla - The Tourist Checklist
Chowchilla Tourism: Tripadvisor has 1,294 reviews of Chowchilla Hotels, Attractions, and Restaurants making it your best Chowchilla resource.
Chowchilla, CA: All You Must Know Before You Go (2026) - Tripadvisor
Chowchilla, located just north of the Highways 99 & 152 interchange “open for business” to visitors with local and national brand restaurants and lodging, as well as hidden shopping gems.
Chowchilla had its own railroad line. Chowchilla Pacific Railroad served the Chowchilla area for 40 years. If it operated today, it could be classed as one of the shortest operating lines in the nation. Constructed in 1913 by O. A. Robertson, the road hauled the cars of household belongings and farm stock of many of the early-day immigrant ...