How to Advocate for California State Parks

California’s state parks are some of the most iconic and diverse landscapes in the country. From the deserts of Anza-Borrego to the redwoods of Humboldt and the coastlines of Big Sur, these state parks are protected because people have spoken up and taken action. 

That responsibility continues today. Advocacy is one of the most effective ways to protect California’s state parks. Whether decisions are being made locally or in Sacramento, your voice helps shape the future of these places. You don’t need to be an expert to get involved. 

Why Advocacy Matters for California State Parks 

State parks face ongoing challenges, including climate change, aging infrastructure, and inconsistent funding. Many of the decisions that affect parks happen at the state level, particularly through the California State Legislature and state budget process in Sacramento. 

When you advocate, you are helping decision makers understand:  

• Why parks matter to the people they represent 
• How funding decisions impact real communities 
• What actions are needed to protect these places 

At its core, advocacy is about accountability. Elected officials rely on input from the people they represent, and your perspective plays a role in shaping those decisions 

Advocacy Resources to Help You Get Started 

If you are not sure where to begin, we have you covered. Check out our advocacy resources at calparks.org/advocateresources.  

Our advocacy resource hub includes: 

• Step-by-step guides to getting involved 
• Do’s and don’ts for communicating with legislators 
• Sample letters and templates 
• A breakdown of the California’s legislative and budget process 
• Insights into how California state parks are funded 

These tools are designed to make advocacy more approachable and effective.  

How to Advocate for California State Parks 

Advocacy can feel intimidating at first, but it is more accessible than it may seem. At its core, it is about sharing why parks matter to you and asking decision makers to take action.  

Whether you are speaking in a meeting, writing an email, or making a phone call, a few key principles can help you advocate effectively: 

• Keep your message clear and focused 
• Share your personal connection to parks 
• Be respectful and open to conversation 
• Use your own words rather than scripted language 
• Be honest if you do not know something and follow up later 

You do not need to have all the answers. Your perspective as someone who cares about California’s state parks is what matters most. 

If you are meeting with a legislator or their staff, keep your message concise and be clear about what you are asking them to do. Even a short, thoughtful conversation can make a lasting impact. 

Ways to Contact Your California State Legislator 

Reaching out to your elected officials is one of the most direct ways to advocate for California state parks. There are several ways to connect, depending on what feels most comfortable to you: 

Email your legislator
A simple, thoughtful email can go a long way. Share why parks matter to you and clearly state the action you are asking them to take. 

Call their office 
Phone calls are a quick and effective way to show support or concern. Staff members track these calls and report key trends and feedback back to legislators. 

Request a meeting 
Meeting with a legislator or their staff, either in your district or in Sacramento, allows for a more in-depth conversation. Building relationships over time can strengthen your impact. 

Attend local events or town halls 
These are great opportunities to ask questions, share your perspective, and show that parks matter to the community. 

Follow up 
After reaching out, consider sending a thank you message or additional information. This helps reinforce your message and keep the conversation going. 

Take Action for California State Parks 

If you are ready to go beyond learning and take the next step, our Take Action page makes it easy to get involved at calparks.org/takeaction.  

These actions are designed to be simple, accessible, and impactful. Whether you have a few minutes or want to stay engaged over the long term, this is one of the most direct ways to support California’s state parks. 

Speak Up and Advocate for California State Parks 

California’s state parks are here today because people cared enough to get involved and speak up for them. That can look different for everyone. It might be sending a message, signing a petition, or taking a few minutes to share why a park matters to you. 

However you choose to show up, it makes a difference. When more of us take that step, it adds up. If parks matter to you, your voice matters too.