Parks Programs
California State Parks helps manage the state’s precious cultural and natural resources, while offering a wide range of programs and initiatives for Californians and visitors from all over the world. The department’s efforts provide equitable access to the outdoors and enhance recreation and educational opportunities for all.
With the leadership of Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom, California was able to create for the very first time, innovative access programs for children and families to explore California’s State Park System.
With the new California State Park Adventure and State Library Parks pass programs and a revamped Golden Bear Pass Program, California is promoting a healthier, more equitable California for all. This effort helps advance the Newsom’s administration’s “California for Outdoors for All” initiative to enable all Californians, regardless of zip code or income, to access parks and open spaces.
California State Parks’ grants cover a diverse range of projects, such as the renovation and expansion of local parks’ basketball courts and soccer fields, construction of boat launching facilities on California’s waterways, programs for off-highway motor vehicle safety and environmental education, youth theater programs and the repair of playground equipment. And this is just a small sampling of what our grants can accomplish.
The funding allows for investment and innovation throughout the state. Totaling about $3 billion so far over the past 60 years, State Parks’ grants provide opportunities that bring together local, state, federal and nonprofit grant partnerships in a variety of areas—urban and rural parks, off-highway vehicle areas and thousands of miles of California waterways.
Learn more about State Parks grant programs' and how the funding can help you reach your outdoor, recreational and conservation goals.
California Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) safety and education page! DBW relies on partnerships with many organizations (educational institutions, aquatic centers, the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and America's Boating Club/U.S. Power Squadrons) and more to provide boating safety education and positive outreach to children, youth, and adults. If you are a first-time boater or if you just want to learn the latest "rules of the road", this page will help make your boating activities safe and enjoyable.
Planning for a Changing Landscape
State Parks has been strategically and creatively working to help manage California’s natural and cultural resources and facilities to adapt to the impacts of climate change.
Outdoor Youth Connection
In partnership with agencies across California, Outdoor Youth Connection provides highly structured, powerful introductions to state parks and outdoor recreation for California's young people.
Kids Outdoors
State Parks invites young visitors to learn while having fun, whether by exploring nature, becoming a Junior Ranger or lifeguard, or by connecting with a park through technology.
EV Charging
California State Parks is happy to offer a number of electric vehicle charging stations to visitors, free of charge.