The third annual California State Parks Week will take place from June 12-16, 2024, featuring more than 200 events designed to celebrate California's 280 parks and the people who visit and protect them. Presented by California State Parks, Save the Redwoods League, Parks California, and the California State Parks Foundation, the week-long celebration includes themed days focused on exploring new experiences, nurturing health and well-being, supporting climate resilience, celebrating community and culture, and caring for shared lands. Events range from guided hikes and yoga sessions to kayaking tours and volunteer opportunities, offering activities for diverse interests.
This year's State Parks Week aligns with the 'Outdoor Access for All' initiative championed by Governor Gavin Newsom and the Natural Resources Agency's 'Outdoors for All' initiative. These efforts aim to expand outdoor access to all Californians through investments in open space infrastructure, outdoor programming, and improvements to permit applications, with particular attention to underserved communities. The initiatives reflect a broader commitment to ensuring that public lands contribute to community strength, happiness, and well-being, as highlighted in recent years.
State parks play a vital role in preserving California's natural and cultural history, protecting resources such as the coastline, redwood forests, and deserts. With over 5,200 miles of trails, 15,000 campsites, and numerous archeological sites, these parks provide diverse opportunities for exploration and engagement. The week serves as an opportunity to honor the wonder and sense of community that the outdoors foster among Californians and visitors worldwide.
Key supporters, including Armando Quintero, Rachel Norton, Sam Hodder, and Kindley Walsh Lawlor, have expressed enthusiasm for the event, emphasizing the physical and mental health benefits of spending time in nature. The planned events are designed to create personal connections with nature, expose participants to awe-inspiring landscapes, and foster a deeper appreciation for California's natural world and human history. By participating, individuals can develop a stronger bond with the land, its history, and their role in conservation and stewardship.
Overall, California State Parks Week represents a unique chance to engage with nature, promote community well-being, and celebrate the significance of protected spaces. For more information on the events and initiatives, visit https://www.parks.ca.gov. The celebration underscores the ongoing importance of public lands in enhancing quality of life and fostering environmental stewardship across the state.
