California’s state parks hold a special place in our hearts, and for people across the state. Thanks to our supporters, these magnificent places will continue to inspire and connect people from all walks of life. Together, we have made a tremendous impact in preserving the natural wonders that make our state so unique.
Trail in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is a favorite among hikers, campers, and families. At the park, volunteers have helped with everything from habitat restoration to on the ground trail and campground maintenance since 2013. This year, they played a key role in caring for popular day-use areas and trails by watering and weeding native plantings and removing invasive species. Their work helps preserve the natural beauty of the redwood landscape while supporting biodiversity. Volunteers also stepped up to repair fencing, trim overgrowth to improve trail safety, and prepare the campground for opening day in the spring.
Volunteers at Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook.
Since 2011, our volunteer workdays at Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, held in partnership with Nature Nexus Institute, have focused on urban habitat restoration. Volunteers support this mission by removing invasive species; planting California natives like sagebrush and prickly pear cactus; and assisting with seed collection, cleaning, and transplanting. Even seemingly small tasks, like fixing plant basins, play a big role in helping restored habitats thrive. These efforts support not only plant life, but local wildlife too, including desert cottontail rabbits and other species that call this green space home.
Hikers during a Disabled Hikers guided walk.
Through our partnership equity grants, we strive to create an inclusive future for our state parks. We awarded one of the grants to Disabled Hikers to fund promotion of their new hiking guide: The Disabled Hiker’s Guide to Northern California: Outdoor Adventures Accessible By Car, Wheelchair, and on Foot. Utilizing detailed information from their book, they hosted group hikes for people with disabilities at parks like Mount Tamalpais State Park. These hikes took consideration of providing clear accessibility information, offering cross-disability affinity spaces, and offering transportation and day-use fee stipends.
Western monarch butterflies at Pismo State Beach
With your help, we’re continuing to support a beloved species — the western monarch butterfly. Through our monarch conservation grant, California State Parks Foundation partnered with the Central Coast State Parks Association on a major overwintering grove restoration project at Pismo State Beach. Over 100,000 visitors travel to Pismo State Beach every year to see roosting monarchs, and the park is one of the main overwintering sites for the species in California. A critical aspect of this project is ensuring that visitors can access the site safely, including replacing fencing along walkways. The more stable fencing also supports five interpretive panels to teach visitors about the western monarch butterfly, such as its unique multi-generational migration, anatomy, life cycle, and more.
Volunteers at Millerton Lake State Recreation Area
Our amazing volunteers work in parks year-round, but we’re especially proud of the efforts for Earth Day this April! A total of 687 volunteers from across the state joined together to restore native habitats, support wildfire resilience, maintain trails, and expand ongoing restoration work. At Millerton Lake State Recreation Area, blue oak trees were planted in picnic areas to provide future shade and habitat. At Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, Chino Hills State Park, and Auburn State Recreation Area, volunteers worked to remove invasive species like black mustard, chrysanthemum, and wild radish. Crystal Cove State Park volunteers restored Moro Overlook by clearing overgrown vegetation and preventing erosion.
Sunset at Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park.
Across all of these efforts, what stands out most is the care people bring to their parks. Whether it is restoring a trail, planting a tree, or helping wildlife thrive, every action comes from people who want these places to stay healthy and welcoming. Your support is a big part of that. It helps our work grow, strengthens our parks, and keeps them vibrant for generations to come.
Your voice and support are crucial for the immediate needs facing our state parks.
