By Gina Yarbrough
Sacramento, CA–California State Parks will offer free admission to 145 participating state parks on Memorial Day May 25 for veterans and active duty and reserve military personnel.
The annual program honors the service and sacrifice of members of the United States Armed Forces and the National Guard by providing complimentary day-use access at participating parks across the state.
“Memorial Day is a time to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who have served our nation,” California State Parks Director Armando Quintero said in a statement. “We are honored to welcome veterans and active and reserve military members into California’s state parks, where we hope these special places provide space to recharge, reconnect and be surrounded by the natural beauty they have helped protect for all.”
To receive free admission, eligible visitors must present a valid military identification card or proof of discharge other than dishonorable or bad conduct.
Participating parks include Sutter’s Fort State Historic Park, Clear Lake State Park, Hollister Hills State Vehicular Recreation Area and San Buenaventura State Beach.
The program stems from Assembly Bill 150, authored by former Assemblymember Kristin Olsen and signed into law in 2013 by former Gov. Edmund Brown Jr. The legislation authorizes California State Parks to offer reduced or free day-use admission to veterans and military personnel on Memorial Day and Veterans Day.
A complete list of participating locations is available through California State Parks.
