Access and Experiences

Advancing equity and access across California’s state parks 

Chino Hills State Park Trail

Access and Experiences

California’s state parks belong to everyone — but systemic barriers have kept many communities from feeling welcome, represented, or included in these shared public lands. This includes barriers such as transportation, entry fees, and more. At California State Parks Foundation, we believe access, equity, and representation are essential to the preservation of our parks.  

By supporting statewide programs and investing in community-led solutions, we are working to break down barriers so all Californians — regardless of background, ability, or income — can experience the healing, joy, and belonging that parks provide. We are committed to making California’s 280 state parks more inclusive.  

Our approach aligns with the state’s Outdoors for All initiative, which envisions an inclusive and accessible future where every Californian has the opportunity to explore, connect, and feel at home in California’s state parks.  

Pathways to parks

Pathways to Parks: Our Guiding Campaign

This campaign was launched in 2018 partnership with California’s First Partner to advance equitable access, youth wellness, and inclusive policy solutions across California State Parks. 

Learn about the Campaign
Outdoor Outreach

Community Partnership Projects

The Community Partnership Grants are designed to strengthen and expand partnerships between California State Parks staff and park partners, tribal communities, community organizations, and nonprofit entities. This program acknowledges the historic exclusion of many communities from outdoor spaces and seeks to address these inequities by supporting the development and implementation of culturally relevant programs and events. Through these efforts, the Community Partnership Grant promotes equitable access to California State Parks and fosters long-term, collaborative relationships that reflect the diversity of the communities served.  

Explore our Partners
Tabbed Callout: Get Involved Programs

Get Involved

California State Library Parks Pass

California State Library Parks Pass

This program is about parks for everyone, and at its core it’s about connecting people to them. Each year, passes are distributed through local libraries, offering free access to the outdoors via a trusted community institution. It’s a powerful example of access and equity in action — find out how to get your pass and start exploring.

About the Pass
Person holding California Library Park Pass at Samuel P Taylor State Park
California State Parks Week

California State Parks Week

This celebration is about parks for everyone, and at its core it’s about bringing people together in them. Each June, we co-lead California State Parks Week — a statewide event honoring the diversity of California’s 280 state parks and the people who protect and enjoy them. Through inclusive, community-led events, we help support and highlight programs that share the stories, cultures, and aspirations of local communities.

Explore the Week
California State Parks Week CSPW Samuel P Taylor