Free Ways to Visit California State Parks

Explore every no-cost option to access California’s 280 state parks — who qualifies, how to apply, and where to use each pass.

Torrey Pines State Park

Free Ways to Visit California State Parks

Free Passes & Programs 

With over 340 miles of coastline; the tallest and oldest trees in the world; deserts, lakes, rivers, and beaches; more than 5,200 miles of trails; 15,000 campsites; and countless historic and cultural sites, California’s state parks truly offer something for everyone. Check out these innovative and free programs to explore the nation’s largest state park system! 

Library Park Pass

California State Library Parks Pass

What it is: A free vehicle day-use pass you can borrow with your library card from participating public libraries — including tribal libraries. 

  • Where it works: 200+ participating California state parks.
  • Where to get it: 1,100+ library branches; many offer backpacks with field guides and binoculars.
  • Good to know: Funding is secured through December 2026. 
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California State Park Adventure Pass: Man showing young child model trains.

California State Park Adventure Pass 

What it is: Free entry for fourth graders and their families to 54 state parks for an entire school year and the following summer. 

  • Who qualifies: Incoming and current 4th graders and their families.
  • Best time to sign up: September 1 to maximize the full year + summer benefit.
  • Impact: Since 2021, more than 48,000 students have participated. 
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Person overlooking Millerton Lake State Recreation Area

Golden Bear Pass 

What it is: A free annual vehicle day-use pass providing entry to 200+ parks for income-eligible Californians. 

  • Who qualifies: Families enrolled in CalWORKs, individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), income-eligible Californians age 62+, tribal TANF participants
  • Impact: Since 2021, more than 63,000 families have received a Golden Bear Pass. 
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Park Ranger running a PORTS program

PORTS®: Parks Online Resources for Teachers & Students 

What it is: Free, live virtual field trips that bring park experts into classrooms and homes — covering ecology, climate, California history, and more. 

  • Great for: Teachers, homeschooling families, afterschool programs.
  • How it works: Book a live session and interact with rangers, scientists, and historians. 
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State Indian Museum

Adventures in Learning 

What it is: A free online portal for lesson plans, digital activities, and guidance for booking in person field trips—making state parks an extension of learning. 

  • Who it serves: Teachers, students, families, and lifelong learners. 
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Frequently Asked Questions

These passes typically cover vehicle day-use entry. Camping, tours, and special events may require additional fees. Always check the park page before you go. 

Usage limits depend on your library’s loan policy. Many libraries allow multiple checkouts throughout the year. 

Yes — homeschooled 4th graders and their families are eligible. 

Why These Programs Matter

These free park access programs are part of California’s Outdoors for All initiative, supported by the Governor and First Partner. Through our Pathways to Parks work, California State Parks Foundation helped design pilot passes, mobilized thousands of advocates, and defended funding so cost is never a barrier.

We remain committed to advancing policies and partnerships that make outdoor equity real — ensuring everyone belongs in nature.

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First Partner at Samuel P Taylor State Park