Becoming a California State Park Concessionaire

If you are interested in becoming a California State Park concessionaire, there are different ways you can explore the opportunity:

Submit a proposal for an existing park concession: Concession opportunities generally are made available to the public through a competitive bid process. A Request for Proposals (formal) is the primary method the Department uses to select the most qualified concessionaire and ensure the best value for the State.  In some cases, the Department may invite interest in new types of public services through a Request for Interest (RFI) in a shorter term contract.  To receive notices about the concession opportunities that interest you, join our mailing list.

Develop your own idea for a concession: New concession opportunities can be developed at a park unit when the concession provides a value-added public service that the State may not otherwise provide, and when such service will be compatible with the park’s General Plan. If you have an idea for a concession at a state park, contact the park directly and ask to speak with a concession specialist or superintendent. This person can help you understand the goals and objectives of the park and determine if your concession proposal is compatible.

Standard concession contract requirements include commercial liability insurance, worker's compensation insurance, automobile and structural property insurance where applicable; performance bond; compliance with California's nondiscrimination, American's with Disabilities Act (ADA), resource protection and drug-free workplace laws; and provision for annual financial statements.    

Concessions Program Innovative Partnerships Presentation

For more information about concessions in state parks, see Questions and Answers about Concessions. 

See Resources for Proposers for more information about proposing a concession at a state park.