South Oxnard

South Oxnard’s identity is closely tied to community activism and the push for fair representation in local governance. For many years, school board members in the Oxnard Union High School District were elected through an at-large voting system, meaning residents across the city voted for every seat. Community members and civil rights advocates argued that this structure diluted Latino voting power in South Oxnard, where a large portion of the city’s Latino population lives. Legal challenges and pressure under California voting laws eventually led to the transition to geographic trustee areas, allowing South Oxnard residents to elect a representative directly from their community and strengthening local political representation.

Oxnard College is a public two-year community college offering more than 25 certificate and degree programs in established and emerging career fields. The campus is known for programs such as culinary arts, dental assisting and its Fire Academy, which operates as an accredited Regional Training Program designated by California’s State Fire Marshal. The college is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges and is part of the Ventura County Community College District alongside Ventura College and Moorpark College, allowing students access to shared resources, financial aid opportunities and transfer pathways.

For many South Oxnard residents, Oxnard College is more than a school — it is a cornerstone of the community. Many students attending the campus come from nearby neighborhoods, and the college’s certificate and Associate of Arts programs often prepare graduates to enter the workforce soon after completion. Through its programs, student services and community partnerships, the campus continues to play an important role in supporting local families and contributing to Oxnard’s long-term growth.

In addition to outdoor fields, Oxnard College operates a 35,000-square-foot gymnasium used for intercollegiate basketball, volleyball and campus athletic programs. The multi-use facility includes six basketball baskets, three volleyball courts and seating for about 1,200 spectators, allowing it to host athletic competitions as well as larger campus and community events when the court surface is covered for alternate uses.

Spanning approximately 75 acres, College Park provides extensive space for both organized sports and casual outdoor activities. The park includes multiple soccer fields as well as basketball courts, sand volleyball courts and horseshoe pits. Families and groups often gather around the park’s picnic tables and barbecue pits, making it a popular place for weekend outings, youth sports and community gatherings. A roughly one-mile walking and biking path loops through the park, giving visitors an easy way to exercise, walk pets or enjoy the open space near the Oxnard College campus.

Bedford Pinkard Skate Park is Oxnard’s first skate park. Located in South Oxnard, it’s part of College Park. Bedford Pinkard is a concrete skate park with street-style elements for the feel of authentically skating around the city. The park's address is 3250 Rose Avenue. If you intend to skate at the skate park, only in-line skates are permitted. Bring a board and drop in at the free skate park seven days a week. The park does have lighting for evening sessions; however, do adhere to park hours. Park hours are daily from 2 pm to 8pm during the week and 10am to 8pm on weekends.

Craving bold flavor? Gordo’s delivers Nashville-style hot chicken sandwiches, tenders, and sides with customizable spice levels. It’s a satisfying stop for those wanting something filling and full of kick after outdoor activities.

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For quick and convenient dining, a few casual spots nearby offer easy options for families and athletes on the go. Blenders In The Grass is a popular stop for smoothies, fresh juices and açaí bowls packed with fruit and energy-boosting ingredients, making it a refreshing choice after a workout or game. Charley’s Cheesesteaks & Wings offers heartier fare with hot cheesesteaks, crispy wings, fries and combo meals that are ideal for refueling after time on the field or exploring South Oxnard.

South Oxnard offers a glimpse into one of the city’s most community-driven districts, where education, recreation and local culture come together. From the campus energy of Oxnard College to the open space of College Park and the creativity of Bedford Pinkard Skate Park, the area reflects the everyday rhythm of Oxnard life.

But South Oxnard is just one piece of the story. Across the city, distinct neighborhoods each bring their own character, experiences and coastal perspectives. Explore more districts to discover the places, people and traditions that give Oxnard its unmistakable identity.