California State Parks Safety Tips
Backpacking
Biking
Boating
Camping
Hiking
Horseback Trail
OHV
Sun
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.