The fifth California State Parks Week returns from June 10-14, 2026, with dozens of planned activities across the state! The program, which coincides with California’s 175th anniversary of statehood, will be accessible to the public at no additional cost beyond standard park entry fees.
The annual event is part of the state’s “Outdoor Access for All” initiative.
“Connecting people to parks has the power to create lifelong stewards of nature,” said Rachel Norton, executive director of the California State Parks Foundation.
Spotlight Events
California State Parks Week will host 171 events at participating parks throughout the state.
This year’s theme is “This is Where You Live,” encouraging Californians to connect with the state’s most scenic natural landscapes. Registration for the activities is now open, and organizers encourage reserving your spot in advance.
Five of them are special “spotlight” events as outlined below…
“Explore the Shore” at Cardiff State Beach
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesday, June 10th, guests can join hands-on activities and expert-led demonstrations focused on the coastal environment in Encinitas.
“Celebrating Floodplain Restoration” at Great Valley Grasslands State Park
The June 11th program will include guided tours and on-the-water experiences related to the restoration of over 200 acres of floodplain along the San Joaquin River.
Guided tours at Big Basin Redwoods State Park
At 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. on June 12th, join a guided tour to learn about the recovery of redwood forests following the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire.
Visitor Center Grand Opening at Sue-meg State Park
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 13th, visitors can join guided cultural walks and programs developed with the Pulikla Tribe of Yurok People, Trinidad Rancheria, and the Yurok Tribe.
100th anniversary of the Mercury speedboat at Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point State Park
From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, June 14th, see the historic all-metal Mercury speedboat on display.
