California State Parks is set to celebrate Earth Day with a variety of events throughout its 280 park units, highlighting the diversity of the state’s natural landscapes. The parks are mobilizing for Earth Day on April 22, but the festivities are scheduled to span the entire weekend, reflecting a state-wide commitment to outdoor recreation and environmental stewardship.
Armando Quintero, the director of California State Parks, is inviting Californians to take part in the events, emphasizing the importance of outdoor activities in discovering the state’s vast natural offerings. California includes some of the most diverse and extraordinary landscapes in the world. Take time to discover where you live,” Quintero remarked, underlining the educational and recreational opportunities available.
The range of events organized for Earth Day is extensive, with activities suitable for all ages and interests. These include guided nature walks, environmental workshops, and interactive virtual programs. For instance, William B. Ide Adobe State Historic Park will host nature walks and art activities on April 20, while Chino Hills State Park offers a day filled with volunteer opportunities and workshops focusing on composting and nature journaling.
Additionally, significant hikes are planned, such as the guided tours at Calaveras Big Trees State Park, where participants can learn about giant sequoias. Similarly, San Juan Bautista State Historic Park is organizing its annual Earth Day celebration with tree plantings and environmental education programs aimed at fostering a green mindset among visitors.
To ensure a responsible celebration of Earth Day, California State Parks has issued guidelines for visitors. These include checking the status of park units before visiting, adhering to safety guidelines, and practicing Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural environment. The department also encourages the use of the California State Parks mobile app, which provides up-to-date information on park conditions and events.
This approach is evident in the diversity of activities planned, from historical tours that highlight the shift from exploitation to conservation of marine life at Pigeon Point Light Station to interactive nature experiences at Castle Rock State Park designed to engage citizen scientists in a bioblitz.
The statewide events are coordinated under the umbrella of the California Natural Resources Agency, with a complete listing available on their website. This centralized resource reflects a collaborative effort to promote environmental awareness and activity across various state departments and agencies.
As Earth Day approaches, California State Parks remains committed to offering these enriching experiences, encouraging public participation in environmental preservation efforts, and supporting the outdoor recreation industry’s role in ecological education. The agency’s initiatives highlight the ongoing dedication to maintaining the state’s natural beauty and ensuring that it can be enjoyed by future generations.
For more information on specific events and to plan your visit, check the California Natural Resources Agency’s Earth Day portal at resources.ca.gov/EarthDay2024.