California State Library Parks Pass
California State Library Parks Pass
Research shows that spending time in the outdoors is associated with better mental and physical health, and that many Californians face barriers to accessing their parks. California has a wealth of state parks, and many public libraries are likely within driving distance of one. By reducing barriers to park access and partnering with entities such as public libraries, the state can help more Californians explore the outdoors and generate positive impacts in the area of health, natural resource stewardship, and historical and cultural connections.
California State Parks Vehicle Day-Use Passes
Through a partnership with California State Parks, the California State Library Parks Pass program provides 5,000 free vehicle-day use passes for circulation (for a minimum of three passes per outlet, including mobile libraries) at public libraries in California. As part of a three-year pilot program, the new Library Pass program will be launched April 2022. The passes are valid at over 200 parks for one car’s access and are a physical hangtag.
Who?
Library card holders may check out a Parks Pass. They are available as a first-come first-served bases and may be requested through the Library catalog. The pass is valid for the entry of one passenger vehicle with capacity of up to nine people or one highway licensed motorcycle at participating state park units.
Where?
Passes will be valid at 200+ participating State Park units. The pass will not be honored at State Park units operated by Federal or local governments and private agencies or concessionaires, or at parks that do not require a vehicle day-use pass, such as marine areas or kayak-in parks. Also, the pass is not valid for per-person entry or tour fees (such as museums), boat use, camping, group use or sites, special events, additional/extra vehicle fees, sanitation disposal use or for supplemental fees.
This map of all library outlets in California and state Parks that accept the pass will help you find the closest park.
How it Works
- Visit a branch of the Mendocino County Library and ask for a parks pass
- Each pass can be checked out for 21 days with your library card
- Return your pass by the due date for the next patron to check out
- Passes are good at over 200 participating parks
For more information about the Pass, please see the CA State Library Parks Pass website
CA State Parks Official Press Release
Library Pass Terms and Conditions
Please note: These passes are for day use parking only at participating CA STATE Parks and do not apply to National Parks, County Parks or other privately owned parks.
Program Support:
