Unveiling a new era in recreational exploration, California State Parks has introduced ‘Virtual Adventurer,’ a mobile app that promises to redefine how we interact with the state’s natural and cultural landscapes.
Utilizing augmented and virtual reality technologies, the app allows users to experience the depth of California’s rich history and scenic beauty in an innovative way.
Armando Quintero, Director of California State Parks, expressed his enthusiasm over the launch.
“Our newly launched ‘Virtual Adventurer’ app broadens opportunities for Californians and tourists alike to access the state’s diverse cultural, historic, and natural resources from their fingertips,” Quintero said.
The ‘Virtual Adventurer’ app is not just an augmented reality tool; it offers an immersive journey through the state’s iconic locations. It breathes life into storytelling with holograms, 3D images, and reconstructions, offering unique narratives of nine participating state parks, a report by Lake County News said.
Users can download the app and navigate through Coyote Canyon in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, or witness Chinatown re-emerging amidst the sagebrush at Bodie State Historic Park. Each virtual adventure offers a unique window into California’s history and the people who shaped it.
The app is intended to be a dynamic platform, with regular updates and additions of more adventures, stories, and parks for users to explore. It aims to keep the journey fresh and interesting, making each experience unique.
Recognizing the importance of inclusivity in outdoor exploration, the ‘Virtual Adventurer’ app has been designed to be one of the most accessible mobile applications.
Features like Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant accessible PDFs, audio descriptions, high-contrast colors, and dyslexic font have been integrated into the app, facilitating access to educational and interpretive content for all park visitors.
Myrian Solis Coronel, Community Engagement Director of Parks California, emphasized the app’s mission.
“Through the ‘Virtual Adventurer’ app and emerging digital technology, we aim to deepen visitors’ connection to our state parks, helping them feel a sense of belonging in these special places,” Coronel said.
The creation of the ‘Virtual Adventurer’ app is the product of a collaborative effort, with Parks California, Jack London Park Partners, Point Lobos Foundation, and several Tribal Nations and universities contributing to content development. Leading immersive digital experience firm, TimeLooper Inc., spearheaded the app’s development.
The nine state parks currently available for exploration through the app include Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Bodie State Historic Park, and Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, each offering a unique perspective into California’s rich heritage.
The ‘Virtual Adventurer’ app is available for download from the Google or Apple app stores. This interactive platform offers users a unique opportunity to connect with California’s diverse landscapes and rich history, ensuring that every exploration is a novel experience.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or a virtual adventurer, this app promises a fresh perspective into California’s remarkable heritage.
