California State Parks Safety Tips

Backpacking

Backpacking

Biking

Biking

Boating

Boating

Camping

Camping

Hiking

Hiking

Equestrian

Horseback Trail

OHV

OHV

Summer

Sun

Swimming

Swimming

RECREATE RESPONSIBLY

Whether you are an experienced outdoor enthusiast or a new one, we look forward to seeing you in California’s park trails, beaches, mountains and the deserts but ask that you recreate responsibly.

  • Know Before You Go – Prior to leaving home, check the status of the park unit you want to visit to find out what restrictions and guidelines are in place. Have a back-up plan in case your destination is crowded. Stay home if you are sick.
  • Plan Ahead - Some restrooms will be temporarily closed to keep up with cleaning schedules. Bring soap/hand sanitizer.
  • Play It Safe – Find out what precautions you should take when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time visiting the State Park System. 
  • Be COVID-19 Safe – State Parks continues to follow guidance provided by the California Department of Public Health:
    • Fully Vaccinated Persons: Face coverings are not required in public outdoor settings. For indoor public settings, such as museums and visitor centers, all vaccinated individuals are to self-attest that they are in compliance prior to entry. 
    • Unvaccinated Persons: Face coverings are required in indoor public settings such as museums and visitor centers.
  • Leave No Trace – Leave areas better than how you found them by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash. Do not disturb wildlife or plants.

Wildfire Safety - To learn more on how to recreate responsibly when hiking or backpacking, view our Wildfire Safety Tips page

Winter / Snow Safety - To learn more on how to recreate responsibly in the snow, view our Winter / Snow Safety Tips page

Also, remember to safely share the road –

  • Park in legal parking spaces.
  • Observe posted speed limits.
  • Stay in your lane on blind curves and do not cut corners.
  • Do not pass on double-yellow lines and pass only when you have a clear view of oncoming traffic, and it is safe to do so.
  • Be prepared for equestrians, pedestrians, joggers, wildlife, rocks, tree limbs, etc., in the roadway.