CALIFORNIA — Families with a child entering fourth grade at a California public school can obtain a Free Fourth Grade Pass for unlimited vehicle day-use visits to 54 participating California state parks during the 2026–27 school year. The program used to be called the California State Park Adventure Pass; the new name is intended to make eligibility clearer.

Who qualifies?

California State Parks says the qualifying child must be a fourth-grade student attending a California public school. The pass covers the student, accompanying family and friends in the same vehicle, with a maximum of three adults. It is not a universal free pass for every family or every park in California.

How to apply

A parent or guardian creates an account at ReserveCalifornia, enters a name, address, telephone number and email, and adds the Free Fourth Grade Pass to the cart. The department says the pass is delivered by email; it recommends printing the barcode before arrival because phone reception and scanning conditions vary. The program is free.

How long is it valid?

For students beginning fourth grade in August 2026, the pass can be used through August 31, 2027, a period of up to 13 months. It allows repeated visits to the participating sites, not a one-time visit. It generally covers vehicle day-use entry; it should not be assumed to cover camping, boat launch fees, tours, reservation charges or other paid services.

Which parks accept it?

The official 54-park directory is the definitive list. It includes sites in the Bay Area, Central Coast and other regions, such as Benicia Capitol State Historic Park, Henry W. Coe State Park, Jack London State Historic Park, Big Basin Redwoods State Park and El Presidio de Santa Bárbara State Historic Park. Before driving, confirm both the park’s participation and its current access status.

What if your child is not in fourth grade?

California also offers a State Library Parks Pass available through public libraries and a Golden Bear Pass for certain eligible low-income and benefit-recipient households. These are separate programs with their own terms and participating parks.

For local readers: California58 will link this guide from park and county coverage, while individual local newspapers should highlight nearby eligible parks and explain travel, accessibility and reservations separately.

Sources: California State Parks, August 12, 2026 announcement; official program FAQ; participating parks.

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