The program encourages students to explore the many beautiful natural open spaces in state parks. (photo courtesy of California State Parks)

More families with fourth graders are gaining free access to the California state park system under simplified rules for a special statewide parks program.

Since Gov. Gavin Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom announced a simplified name and sign-up period for California State Parks’ Free Fourth Grade Pass in August, downloads increased by 46% compared to the first six weeks it was offered in 2026.

“Making this pass easier to find and use means more fourth graders are getting outside, discovering their state and making memories with their families. We won’t stop bringing down barriers and expanding access to the places that make California so special,” Newsom said.

Incoming fourth graders in public schools can receive a free Fourth Grade Pass, offering unlimited free access to 54 participating state parks. In the greater Los Angeles area, they include Will Rogers State Historic Park, Los Encinos State Historic Park, Chino Hills State Park and California Citrus State Historic Park.

Fourth graders previously couldn’t sign up for the pass – formerly known as the California State Park Adventure Pass – until September, after the school year had already started. In addition to opening in August, the pass is now valid for up to 13 months, through Aug. 3, 2027, so it can be used until current students begin fifth grade. Parents and guardians can download the free pass for fourth graders at reservecalifornia.com.

“Removing barriers to state parks is at the heart of Outdoors for All, and the numbers are already showing that the updates to our Free Fourth Grade Pass are doing exactly that,” State Parks Director Armando Quintero said. “There’s still plenty of time for fourth graders to get their free pass and start exploring the nation’s largest and most diverse state park system.”

The free pass is a cornerstone of Outdoors for All, the governor and first partner’s commitment to equitable park access. Since the free pass program was launched in September 2021, more than 140,000 passes have been distributed to fourth graders and their families.

In addition to all fourth graders in public schools, California residents such as those receiving public assistance and anyone with a library card can access free parks passes as part of Outdoors for All. For information, visit parks.ca.gov.