California offers free MLK Day entry at 200+ state parks, contrasting with Trump’s National Parks policy
TL;DR Summary
Governor Newsom announced free vehicle day-use entry on MLK Day 2026 at more than 200 California state parks, funded by the California State Parks Foundation, inviting all Californians to honor Dr. King. The move contrasts with the federal government under Trump, which ended MLK Day free-entry at National Parks and added Trump’s birthday to the pass program. California highlights ongoing access initiatives like the California State Library Parks Pass, Adventure Pass, Golden Bear Pass, and other programs to remove cost barriers and expand outdoor access ahead of Black History Month.
- Governor Newsom announces free entry to California State Parks on MLK Day — as Trump swaps the “free day” for his birthday and whitewashes civil rights history from National Parks California State Portal | CA.gov
- California defies Trump, makes admission free for over 200 parks on MLK Day SFGATE
- Did Trump cancel MLK Day? Why the federal holiday might look different The Clarion-Ledger
- California Will Waive State Park Entry Fees on M.L.K. Day The New York Times
- California will offer free entry to state parks on Martin Luther King Jr. Day KTLA
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Read on California State Portal | CA.gov