Press Releases

Displaying 1 - 10 of 452 Press Releases

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

Begin 2026 on the Right Foot with California State Parks’ First Day Hikes

SACRAMENTO — Step into 2026 on the right foot and on the right trail! California State Parks is inviting outdoor enthusiasts to bring their family and friends to the annual First Day Hikes on Thursday, Jan. 1, to embrace a healthy start and breath in fresh air. As the Golden State continues to celebrate its 175th anniversary of statehood, State Parks is offering over 80 guided hikes at more than 60 of California’s more diverse and iconic parks in the nation.

December 15, 2025 Read the Full News Release

Father Dies After Kayak Capsizes at Lake Perris State Recreation Area; 7-Year-Old Son Survives

PERRIS — A 54-year-old man helped keep his 7-year-old son alive but was unable to save himself after their kayak capsized on Dec. 6 at Lake Perris State Recreation Area (SRA).

December 07, 2025 Lake Perris SRA Read the Full News Release

California State Parks to Commemorate One Year Since Bidwell Mansion Fire

CHICO – Almost one year after an arson fire severely damaged the historic Bidwell Mansion, California State Parks invites the public to the temporary reopening of the visitor center and gift shop to commemorate this solemn anniversary at Bidwell Mansion State Historic Park from Dec. 11-13. This temporary reopening will provide the public with their first opportunity to visit the park’s visitor center and gift shop since the devastating fire on Dec. 11, 2024, and will include several events to mark the occasion.

December 03, 2025 Bidwell Mansion SHP Read the Full News Release