Defending Parks from Development and Closures

Protecting California’s state parks from harmful projects and permanent loss. 

Defending Parks from Development and Closures

California’s state parks are constantly at risk from proposals that would carve up wild landscapes, industrialize historic places, or close the gates to public access. From toll roads and transmission lines to large-scale industrial development, these threats put irreplaceable natural and cultural resources in jeopardy. 

California State Parks Foundation works to stop harmful projects before they break ground, bringing together communities, partners, and policymakers to defend the integrity of our parks. By standing firm against closures and non-mission uses, we ensure that California’s treasured parks remain protected, open, and accessible for future generations. 

How We Defend Parks

Each park defended tells the story of what’s at stake—and what’s possible when people come together.

Safe Access Secured at Candlestick Point

Candlestick Point State Recreation Area had long suffered from poor access caused by flooding. California State Parks Foundation advocated for improvements, and the City of San Francisco, along with partners, installed new access points and placed K-rail along Gilman Street—making it safer and easier to walk or bike into the park. 

Learn More

San Onofre State Beach Saved Forever  

For more than 15 years, California State Parks Foundation worked alongside local, regional, and statewide partners in the Save San Onofre Coalition (SSOC) to stop a proposed toll road through San Onofre State Beach. Together, the coalition successfully protected the park, preserving public access to its campground, trails, and world-famous Trestles Beach for future generations.

Learn More

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park Defended 

When a major electricity transmission line threatened to cut through Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, California State Parks Foundation stood up to protect the desert. By weighing in before the California Public Utilities Commission with testimony, briefings, and public hearings, we helped block the project and safeguarded the park’s fragile desert ecosystem. 

Learn More About This Park

Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park Preserved 

A mega-dairy proposed next to Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park threatened to bring water, air, and noise pollution to this historic site. California State Parks Foundation partnered with local organizations, including Friends of Allensworth and Allensworth PALS, to stop the project. 

Learn more about this park
Capitol Building

California’s State Parks Saved from Closure 

In 2008, 2009, and 2011, proposals from state leaders threatened to close dozens—at one point, more than 200—of California’s state parks. California State Parks Foundation mobilized tens of thousands of advocates, launched grassroots campaigns, and worked with policymakers to prevent the closures. Despite severe budget cuts, every park ultimately remained open, ensuring Californians did not lose access to these treasured public lands. 

Learn More About Our Organizational Timeline
Anza Borrego Flowers

Your Support Makes a Difference

We’re dedicated to ensuring California state parks are protected, well-funded, and accessible for everyone. From monitoring key legislation to addressing climate challenges and expanding recreational spaces, we work to preserve these natural treasures for generations to come. Your donation fuels this important work. Donate today and help us protect the places that matter most.

Donate