At a Glance
- One free vehicle pass per park on January 19
- Applies to 200+ state parks and beaches
- Funded by California State Parks Foundation
- Why it matters: Saves families up to $20 in day-use fees
California motorists can skip the parking fee at more than 200 state parks and beaches on Martin Luther King Day, the Department of Parks and Recreation announced Friday.
How the Free Day Works
The waiver covers a single passenger vehicle carrying nine people or fewer. Visitors still must pay tour fees at specialty sites such as Hearst Castle, which are excluded from the promotion.
Who’s Paying the Tab
The California State Parks Foundation is underwriting the lost revenue. The nonprofit also finances the State Library Parks Pass program, which lets library-card holders check out a free car pass any day of the year.
Where to Go
A clickable map listing all participating parks is available on the department’s website. Popular destinations expected to draw holiday crowds include:
- Topanga State Park in the Santa Monica Mountains
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park in San Diego County
- Half Moon Bay State Beach along the San Mateo coast
What to Know Before You Go
- Arrive early; parking lots fill quickly on fee-free days
- Bring exact change for any on-site tour or museum fees
- Dogs must remain on six-foot leashes
- Alcohol and glass containers are banned on beaches
The department urges visitors to follow Leave No Trace principles: pack out trash, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife closures.
