The California State Parks Foundation is inviting park lovers and photographers to submit their favorite snapshots of the state’s scenic landscapes, wildlife, outdoor recreation and cultural sites as part of a statewide photo contest.
Now through Sept. 30, the free-to-enter contest is open to all experience levels. Entrants can submit up to three images in five categories: Scenic Landscapes, Wildlife & Nature, Recreation & Activities, People in Parks, and California History.
“This is a fun opportunity for Californians to highlight and raise awareness for the parks they love,” said Rachel Norton, executive director of California State Parks Foundation. “With hundreds of state parks around the state, we expect to see a diversity of photos that include beaches, mountains, urban parks, rivers, people enjoying nature, and more.”
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Natural Bridges State Beach is shown in this undated photo. (California State Parks Foundation) -
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is shown in this undated photo from the California State Parks Foundation. -
Calaveras Big Trees State Park is shown in this undated photo. (California State Parks Foundation) -
Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park is shown in this undated photo. (California State Parks Foundation) -
South Yuba River State Park
is shown in this undated photo. (California State Parks Foundation)
California’s state park system spans 280 parks and includes more than 5,200 miles of trails, 340 miles of coastline, and thousands of historical sites and structures. Earlier this year, the foundation launched its first “Best of California’s State Parks” poll to highlight favorite visitor spots for camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Category winners in this new photo contest will be featured in the foundation’s 2026 calendar, and the winning photographer will receive a California Explorer Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass, which provides access to 134 state parks.
Honorable mentions will be shared in an online gallery and across social media platforms. All winners will receive a copy of the 2026 calendar.
Photos will be judged on creativity, technical quality, storytelling, and relevance to the selected category. For full contest rules and guidelines, click here.