SeeCalifornia.com

Photo: It’s ALL about figures when experts study the numbers at California State Parks facilities as shown in the traffic at Bolsa Chica State Beach, ranked #3 most popular state park in California.

There are over 270 California State Parks scattered throughout California. But not all parks receive the same amount of traffic and attention. Sure you mama loves all her children the same, but let’s admit it–she has favorites!  When you visit San Simeon and see popular Hearst Castle, you’d think it is one of the top 10 for attendance, but it isn’t!  And here’s something interesting: 9 out of the 10 most popular state parks are beaches! Nearly everyone loves a California beach.

On a recent visit to the recently opened Crystal Cove State Park Moro Campground and beach day-use area in Orange County,  it seemed odd that a new campground is opening at a time when State Parks are proposing to close some parks due to budget reductions. The ocean views, visitor center, parking facilities, campground spaces and public restrooms were really nice. Everything is first class. My friend I was with said she thought it was probably funded before the budget ax struck.  She also explained that the beautiful, new signage that went up at several of the Top 10 State Parks, replacing perfectly good signs that weren’t as “pretty” was due to budgets. She was partly correct.

According to California State Park officials, the new crown jewel facility across the street (Pacific Coast Highway) from Crystal Cove State Beach is  located in one of the highest demand areas of the state. Park officials are projecting about $1 million in annual fee revenue from this park–enough to fund park operations and visitor services at this park and provide additional funding for other parks within the system.

Recently Californians were given a chance to vote for new taxes to fund the state parks & beaches and they said “no, thanks”. In 2012, they’ll get to vote for more taxes once again, though not specifically to help the state parks budget.

Here’s the Top Ten State Parks Attendance:

1. Old Town San Diego State Historic Park
2. Sonoma Coast State Park (with beaches & camping)
3. Bolsa Chica State Beach (includes camping)
4. Huntington State Beach
5. San Onofre State Beach (includes camping)
6. Morro Bay State Park (has a beach & camping)
7. Torrey Pines State Beach
8. Doheny State Beach (camping facilities)
9. Oceano Dunes State Vehicle Recreation Areas (beaches & camping)
10. Cardiff State Beach (camping at nearby state beaches San Elijo & Carlsbad)