Here are 4 ways you can visit California State Parks for free this year

The skies are clearing up and spring is on the horizon, and what better way to celebrate this than with a free trip to a California state park?

Typically, state parks will charge a daily entry fee for about $10 throughout the year and more on holidays. But there are several ways you can get in free all year. Here’s how:

California State Parks Library Pass

If you’re a library card holder, you can check out a State Library Parks Pass.

The pass allows for free entry of one vehicle with up to nine people or one motorcycle. All you have to do is go to your local library and check out the pass for a specific number of days. Be sure to check guidelines on how to return your pass.

Adventure Pass

If you have a fourth grader, you and your family can get into state parks for free with an Adventure Pass.

The pass is valid for the school year, and allows for up to three adults and other kids.

You can sign up for a pass online or by calling 800-444-7275. Once you create a profile, you’ll get your pass via email.

Golden Bear Pass

The Golden Bear Pass is reserved for low income communities.

In an effort to increase accessibility to state parks, people who receive Supplemental Security Income or assistance from the CalWORKS Program or are 62 years and older with limited income can get into state parks for free with the Golden Bear Pass. The passes are renewed each year.

You can sign up for it via CalWORKS or on the state park website. You can also apply in-person at a state park but be sure to call ahead for available times.

Distinguished Veteran Pass

Veterans can get in for free at state parks with a Distinguished Veteran Pass.

To get the pass, you must have been honorably discharged, be a California resident and have an overall disability benefits rating of at least 50%, been held as a prisoner of war, or be a Medal of Honor recipient.

This is a lifetime pass and needs to be renewed every five years. You can apply online.

What do you want to know about life in Sacramento? Ask our service journalism team your top-of-mind questions in the module below or email servicejournalists@sacbee.com.