Newsroom

Parks California Awards $1.2 Million to Community Organizations Expanding Access to California State Parks

SACRAMENTO – Parks California and California State Parks today announced the award of more than $1.2 million in grants to 34 community organizations across the state through the Route to Parks program, supporting efforts to reduce transportation barriers and expand access to California’s state parks. The 2026 grants are expected to help more than 15,000 people — many visiting for the first time — experience one of the most diverse state park systems in the country.

January 27, 2026 Read the Full News Release

Colorful Wildflower Displays Expected at California’s Desert State Parks This Spring

SACRAMENTO — Pollinators and anthophiles unite! This spring, California State Parks expects a moderate-to-strong wildflower bloom across desert state parks, thanks to widespread rainfall during the fall and winter. The desert landscape is beginning to burst with color in parks such as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (SP) and Red Rock Canyon SP, with additional parks expected to display vibrant blooms in the weeks and months ahead.

January 23, 2026 Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland SP, Red Rock Canyon SP, Saddleback Butte SP, Hungry Valley SVRA, Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch SVRA, Chino Hills SP, Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve SNR, Anza-Borrego Desert SP Read the Full News Release

State Parks Invites the Public to Help Shape the Future Story of Metini-Fort Ross

JENNER — California State Parks today announced the launch of public outreach efforts for the Metini-Fort Ross Interpretation Master Plan (IMP) Engagement Project. State Parks invites the public to help shape the future of interpretation at Fort Ross State Historic Park (SHP) by filling out an online survey. The survey will close on Feb. 16, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.

January 16, 2026 Fort Ross SHP Read the Full News Release

California State Parks Plans Pile Burning Operations at Mount Diablo State Park

WALNUT CREEK — California State Parks will conduct pile burning operations at Mount Diablo State Park (SP) on one or more days between Jan. 15 and March 15. The goal of these planned burns is to reduce wildfire risk, support the park’s native plants and wildlife, and protect nearby communities.

January 06, 2026 Mount Diablo SP Read the Full News Release

Embrace the Silent Season: Why Winter is the Best Time to Trade the Crowds for Pristine Landscapes in California’s State Parks

SACRAMENTO —While many people pack away their hiking boots once the rain and temperature drop, the winter season is actually one of the “coolest” times to explore California's diverse landscapes. From snow-dusted Sierra peaks to vibrant desert oases, at California State Parks, the winter months offer a unique opportunity to see the Golden State’s stunning locations without the peak-season crowds.

January 05, 2026 Read the Full News Release

Set Your 2026 Outdoor Goals with a California State Parks Pass

SACRAMENTO — As California celebrates its 175^th anniversary, California State Parks is highlighting its annual passes as the perfect gift for 2026 to experience the extraordinary beauty and diversity of the Golden State. From beaches and redwood forests to mountains, lakes, off-highway vehicle parks and historic sites, there’s sure to be a park in the nation’s largest state parks system to capture your imagination in the new year.

December 30, 2025 Read the Full News Release

California State Parks Announces the Classification and Formal Naming of Wildwood Canyon State Park

LOMA LINDA — California State Parks is excited to announce the formal classification and naming of Wildwood Canyon State Park by the State Park and Recreation Commission at its regular public meeting on Dec. 17. The park has been open for day use since 2003, welcoming hikers, equestrians and cyclists.

December 19, 2025 Wildwood Canyon Prop, California State Park and Recreation Commission Read the Full News Release