SeeCalifornia.com

Photos left to right: McArthur-Burney Falls, Crystal Cove cabins, Año Nuevo bull elephant seal

Even though recent publicity has focused on the negative side of California State Parks operations, the threatened shut-down of 7o some parks, the rally to save them, and discovery of unreported funds of over $50 million that could have saved them, the drama that has played out doesn’t stop these parks from living, loving, and providing recreation to more than 57 million happy travelers in a single year! That’s a lot of vacations–and good times, no doubt!

Over 1.3 million acres of land are owned or managed by California State Parks– 1.5% of the total area of California. There are 279 units in the California State Parks system that range from state beaches, mountain attractions, campgrounds, desert facilities, sand dunes with all terrain vehicle riding, to historic facilities such as the Governor’s Mansion and other museums throughout California. Since we fund our very own government, that means that we, as citizens, own 1.5% of California! Amazing. With this new perspective, don’t you owe it to yourself to go see your property? Admission and /or parking isn’t always free so do your homework before you go (parks.ca.gov).