While the federal government shutdown enters its 33 day effecting National Parks in California like Yosemite, California state officials are making a concerted effort to ensure more residents can visit state parks for free.
Governor Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom have announced an expansion of the Golden Bear Pass, offering free vehicle day-use entry to all 280 California state parks for families receiving public assistance.
“The revamped Golden Bear Pass is a prime example of how more efficient and effective government can better connect everyday Californians with essential services and deliver real results. At a time when Trump’s government shutdown is impacting access and services at national parks, this innovative program is expanding access to California’s world-class state parks.” –Governor Gavin Newsom
“Our state parks are unmatched in their scenic beauty and biodiversity, and they belong to all Californians. Cost should never be a barrier for California families seeking to enjoy the state’s outdoor spaces and the physical and mental health benefits that come from being in nature. The simplified Golden Bear Pass will leave an enduring legacy of improved access to state parks for underserved communities as part of California’s Outdoors for All initiative.” -First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom
The Golden Bear Pass is available to families on CalWORKs, individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income, income-eligible Californians over 62, and participants in the Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program. It is one of three efforts under The Golden Bear Pass is one of three free access programs including the California State Park Adventure Pass for fourth graders and the California State Library Parks Pass which allows residents to check out free passes from the library.
“Thanks to the simplified Golden Bear Pass process, tens of thousands more California families will be able to explore the state’s incredible natural and cultural resources for free. I look forward to welcoming thousands more families to their state parks with the help of this innovative program.” -California State Parks Director Armando Quintero
California’s 280 state parks span 340 miles of coastline and include 5,200 miles of trails and 15,000 campsites. Learn more about the Golden Bear Pass below.
This free pass provides free vehicle day-use access at over 200 California State Parks-operated units. Golden Bear passes are valid from issuance until December 31 of the year in which the pass was issued.
WHO QUALIFIES
- Supplemental Security Income recipients.
- Those age 62 and over whose income falls under a certain threshold.
- Single–Average gross monthly income from all sources not exceeding $1,732.
- Married–Combined average gross monthly income from all sources not exceeding $2,352.
- CalWORKs program recipients.
- Tribal TANF program recipients.
HOW TO OBTAIN THE GOLDEN BEAR PASS
Prepare for the application process by reviewing the Golden Bear Pass Application Requirements.
- Apply and submit your documents.
- Get approved.
- Receive your pass.
- Enjoy free day-use entry to the parks.
For those applying through a California Department of Social Services partnership:
- CalWORKs recipients: In partnership with the California Department of Social Services, the process for CalWORKs families moved to an online system. Families can now complete the application on their smartphone in minutes. For more information, please visit www.cdss.ca.gov/goldenbearpass.
- Tribal TANF recipients: Please apply through your Tribal TANF administrator. California State Parks is not currently accepting mail-in or in-person applications.
In person: For the fastest processing, apply in person at designated Pass Sales Locations of the California State Park System.
Online: To apply online follow the Online Application Steps.
By mail: Download the Golden Bear Pass Application and mail with required documents.
