While California state parks are public spaces, many people cannot access or experience them. Barriers to park access include lack of transportation, cost of visiting, lack of awareness of parks or the activities they offer, closures, and more. Though we are working to reduce these barriers, this is just the beginning of the effort to ensure that every Californian feels welcome in and can enjoy state parks.  

There are many factors that come together to make a great experience at a California State Park, from a clear welcome sign, to well-maintained trails and bathrooms, to meaningful activities and information. Explore the elements of an ideal park experience and what makes visitors come back again and again. 

In 2023, our work in parks — supported by members and donors — helped provide safe and welcoming gathering spaces, protect natural resources, offer meaningful programming, and so much more. Here are just a few projects we’ve helped bring to life:   

Malibu Creek State Park

Malibu Creek Docents is creating a 3D topographic map of Malibu Creek State Park for display at the park’s visitor center. This custom model will show the park from a satellite view, including colors, the various hills and valleys, boundaries, and other specific features unique to this area. This visual display of the park’s terrain will be an invaluable tool for visitors planning their hikes. It will also add significant value to the visitor center and enhance the park experience for the public.  

Empire Mine State Historic Park  

This park is part of the new California State Park Adventure Pass program that serves California's fourth grade students and their families. The park’s visitation has grown, and now, a newly hired staff member will be able to help more students and families. In partnership with Sierra Gold Parks Foundation, the Empire Mine State Historic Park Adventure Pass Interpreter will help reach local fourth graders and their families, plus develop interpretive programs and materials to provide a rich experience when visiting the park.  

Rio de Los Angeles State Park

For over a decade, California State Parks Foundation has contributed to the habitat restoration efforts at this park through our volunteer program. During one workday this year, our volunteers planted 100 native plants! The park is a sanctuary for surrounding communities and provides vital habitat for wildlife that migrates along the Los Angeles River.  

Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park  

In recent years, Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park has fundamentally changed the way history is interpreted at the park. That includes transforming their media room into a space where visitors can watch an important documentary that explores the history of systemic racism in Sacramento and John Sutter’s impact on the Native communities of Sacramento then and now. Thanks to your support, Friends of Sutter’s Fort will transform this space from outdated and uncomfortable into a more welcoming, comfortable place for visitors to view the documentary and reflect on the park’s complicated history and its impact. 

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Big Basin State Park 

We provided funding to the Mountain Parks Foundation Redwood Rx program to cover costs like staffing expenses, instructors’ fees, and outreach and scholarship programs. The Redwood Rx approach will provide a range of nature-based guided programs in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Big Basin Redwoods State Park that allow participants to experience the health and wellness benefits of connecting with nature.  

Old Town San Diego State Historic Park

During California State Parks Week, visitors engaged with Kumeyaay culture bearers who shared traditional knowledge and insights about San Diego’s natural resources and Kumeyaay culture. Thanks to donor support, visitors could learn about the rich history and heritage of the region from the very people who have preserved it for generations.  

We look forward to pushing more projects like these forward in the new year. With your help, we can continue improving access to and experiences in California’s state parks. 

Please help us end the year on the right foot. Give a tax-deductible gift to our 2024 State Parks Improvement Campaign today! When you give by December 31, your gift will be matched to do twice as much for parks.