You can get into California state parks for free with a library card. Here’s how it works
California public library card-holders now have free access to more than 200 state parks, according to the California Department of Parks and Recreation.
In partnership with the First Partner’s Office and the California State Library, state parks are providing free vehicle day-use entry passes to those with a library card.
Here’s what you need to know before heading to the nearest California library for a park pass:
What are the rules?
The library park pass is valid for one passenger vehicle with no more than nine people or one highway licensed motorcycle, according to the California Department of Parks and Recreation’s California state library park pass page. The pass is valid seven days a week, including holidays, if space allows.
The pass won’t be accepted at state parks operated by the federal or local government as well as private agencies or concessionaires. The pass is also not valid at state vehicular recreation areas, private parks and parks that don’t issue day-use vehicle fees, according to the website.
The pass is not for per-person entry or for the following, according to the California Department of Parks and Recreation:
- Tour fees (museums)
- Boat use
- Camping
- Group use or sites
- Special events
- Additional vehicle fees
- Sanitation disposal use
- Supplemental fees
Passes can’t be used with another pass or discounts. The pass also can’t be copied or altered in any way, according to the terms and conditions.
How do I get one?
If you have a California library card, state park passes are available at your nearest library, according to the website. The pass and the library card are free. If you don’t have one, you can sign up at your local library.
How long can I use the pass?
The number of days a person can hold on to a pass is determined by the library.
State libraries, including mobile libraries, have passes available for checkout. Be sure to check the library’s guidelines and polices for returning passes.
This story was originally published April 8, 2022 at 10:23 AM with the headline "You can get into California state parks for free with a library card. Here’s how it works."