Carmichael Park - 2 Courts

Bocce, also known as Italian lawn bowling, is one of the most widely played games in the world and is one of the oldest lawn or yard games.   The game is easy to play and is suitable for all ages and skill levels.  The two Bocce Ball Courts are located at Carmichael Park between the small dog park and ball field 5.  Remember to bring your own equipment! 

How to Play

Team Requirement - At the minimum, bocce can be played between two players.  But it is an excellent team game, involving two teams with an even number of players each.  At the most, you can have eight people playing bocce at a time (four on each team).

Equipment Requirement - Each game of bocce requires a set of bocce balls.  The set will include:

• 1 pallino or jack, which is the targe smaller ball
• 8 bocce balls, which are large in size and come in different colors or patterns (four of each color)

Playing a Game - A bocce match begins with a randomly chosen side having the opportunity to throw the pallino from one end of the court into the playing zone.  The same side also gets the opportunity to bowl first once the pallino is in position.  The other team then takes their turn and tries to get their ball closer to the pallino than the other team's ball.  The end of the frame occurs when both sides have used all their balls.  Whichever team manages to get their ball closest to the pallino gets to score for that frame; one point for each of the balls that manage to get closer to the pallino than the other team's closest ball.  Game length varies depending on the region, but typically ranges from 7 points to 13 points.  

Bocce Ball Court Rules:

• Courts are for bocce ball use only.
• No bicycles, skateboards, soccer, or other activities are allowed on the courts.
• Appropriate shoes must be worn at all times (heels and hard-soled shoes will damage the surface).
• Free Play is limited to 60 minutes when others are waiting.
• When finished, please leave the courts so others can play.
• Private instruction is not permitted on courts without a paid reservation or CRPD written approval.
• No food or beverage, other than water, is allowed near or on the courts. 
• No dogs on courts.
• No smoking (including vaping), alcohol, or drug use.

Bocce Ball Court Reservation Overview: Reserve Online Now!

• Courts 1 and 2
  • Courts may be reserved for bocce ball play only.
  • Reservations may be made from dawn until dusk (no lights).
  • Reservations are $10 per hour with a two-hour minimum and a four-hour maximum.
  • Reservations are available up to two hours prior to the desired play time.
  • Open for free play when not reserved.

Emergency: Call 911

Sheriff's Non-Emergency Line:  (916) 874-5115

Fun Fact: Famous historical figures like Da Vinci and Galileo regularly played bocce because they saw how it was beneficial to the mind and body.