Californians will be able to enjoy their state's stunning natural beauty for free thanks to the rollout of a new program.
Timed somewhat to coincide with Earth Day on April 22, the California State Library Parks Pass will distribute day-use vehicle passes to various state parks, entirely for free.
The only thing that's required is a library card.
Virtually anything can serve as inspiration to get outside, whether it's the promise of spring or that soothing national parks Netflix show narrated by Barack Obama. In any case, the spring months are a great time to get back to nature.
Local libraries throughout the state will offer the parks pass, which can be checked out — just like a book — using a library card. Each library will get at least three passes, which can be used any day of the week.
"All Californians should have the opportunity to be outdoors in nature," Wade Crowfoot, California's Secretary for Natural Resources, said.
"Yet many of our state's residents live in communities without adequate parks and open space. This innovative new program will enable more Californians to explore our incredible State Parks system, and in the process create more equitable access to nature and the outdoors."
It's worth noting that this three-year pilot program only applies to state parks, not national parks, so Yosemite isn't covered. Some state parks are ineligible, as well — you can check the website for the full list.
The library program joins the California State Park Adventure Pass, a program that gives fourth graders and their families free entry at 19 different state parks.
The 2021/22 state budget, which incentivized more equitable access to state parks, will fund the library program.
As noted, not all of California's beautiful nature preserves will be freely available on the pass. But the list of parks that are included is impressive: Half Moon Bay State Beach, Mount Diablo State Park and California's oldest state park, Big Basin Redwoods State Park, are all included.
Since the pass isn't specific to one park, it opens the possibility of taking a pass out, then trying to hit as many state parks as possible before the loan period is over.
The program will likely be popular. While some libraries will receive more than three passes, others will be quite limited, so it's likely that the passes will be a hot ticket item. It will be possible to place a hold on passes, though.
If you live in the Golden State, are you going to take advantage of this program? Why or why not? Let us know your thoughts in the comments, and share some tips for visiting California's state parks.
