California State Parks Week is presented jointly by California State Parks, Save the Redwoods League, Parks California, and California State Parks Foundation. Through special community events and in-person and virtual programming, this inaugural event celebrated California’s state parks and the people who visit and help protect these iconic places.
The second year of this event will take place June 14-18, 2023. Californians from across the state to celebrate and experience California’s state parks and learn about the diversity, natural and cultural history, and opportunities available within the California state park system.
To participate and check updates on the event visit castateparksweek.org.
California State Parks Week Events
Wednesday, June 14:
EXPLORE NEW EXPERIENCES
From epic beach days to the magic of ancient redwood forests, there is so much to see, do, and experience in California’s incredible 280 state parks. We encourage everyone to visit a state park and try something new. Interested in camping? Many parks and beaches offer beautiful campgrounds with amenities for firsttime campers. How about an interpretive hike to learn about your local history or adventures like surfing, boating, or offroading? California State Parks Week is your invitation to explore an activity that you just might fall in love with.
Thursday, June 15:
NOURISH YOUR HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
There’s a reason why playing outside, having a barbecue or picnic, or taking a walk in the open air feels so good. Studies have shown that time in nature can boost people’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Everyone should have access to these benefits. California’s state parks give us all places where we can find refuge, inspiration, and joy. When we connect with nature, we are connecting with ourselves and boosting our overall health.
Friday, June 16:
SUPPORT CLIMATE RESILIENCE
Did you know that forests, oceans, grasslands, and other ecosystems throughout California’s public lands store huge amounts of carbon, making them some of the world’s most powerful tools in adapting to climate change? That’s one of the reasons why it’s critical that all of us protect lands and waters. On this day, we encourage you to learn about and support state parks and their partners’ efforts to ensure climate resilience across California’s State Park System—from expanding protected lands in state parks and restoring forests to engaging in educational dialogue about climate threats and solutions.
Saturday, June 17:
CELEBRATE COMMUNITY AND CULTURE
California’s state parks are for all people. We reaffirm this truth by elevating the perspectives and experiences of communities that have been historically underrepresented in public lands. On this day and every day, we honor Black, Indigenous, and communities of color and the many ways these communities care for, relate with, and enjoy our shared parks. Join us for celebrations and cultural events at state parks statewide.
Sunday, June 18:
CARE FOR OUR SHARED LANDS
It takes our full community to care for public lands. Partners and volunteers are vital to keeping California’s State Park System healthy, beautiful, and rich in biodiversity. Discover how you can get involved in efforts to protect and steward California’s state parks, as park staff, a volunteer, a partner, or one of many other roles.