The unofficial end of summer is nearly here: Labor Day. And with it comes perhaps one last chance to take a summer trip to a California state park.
If you plan to squeeze in that trip, though, be sure to do so safely.
"California’s 280 (and growing) state parks offer something for everyone," California State Parks said in a Sept. 1 news release. "By following key safety tips ... you and your loved ones can enjoy a safe and memorable experience in the nation’s largest and most diverse state park system."
Here are some tips from California State Parks on how to enjoy the Golden State's beauty safely, as well as some tips for planning a visit.
Planning is key
State officials said it's pertinent for visitors to plan ahead.
You should plan activities around "temperatures
throughout the day," the department said. You should also dress appropriately for any planned activities, such as wearing hats, sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Visitors should bring plenty of water and snacks to stay energized and hydrated.
If you're planning a hike, it's best to go with a friend, state officials said, adding that you should "bring appropriate supplies, such as water, sunscreen and appropriate shoes and clothing."
"Skip the alcohol and drugs," officials said. "Alcohol is not permitted in some state parks."
You can check each specific park website to see which prohibit alcohol.
It is against the law to operate vehicles, including boats or off-highway vehicles, while impaired.
"Impaired drivers and boaters can be arrested and their car or boat can be towed," officials said.
Water safety tips to heed
State officials urged visitors to "respect the water" and "wear a life jacket."
When you're around the water, you should "wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket."
"Water-related incidents can happen suddenly, and wearing a life jacket is the best way to increase chances of survival," officials said.
Some public agencies and private organizations loan life jackets to the public. You can find a list of those locations here.
If you encounter an emergency situation, you can call 911 or seek help from a nearby lifeguard.
Should you encounter an ocean rip current, you should "stay calm and do not fight it," officials said.
"Swim or float parallel to the shore until you are out of the current and then swim toward the shore," officials said.
If you feel like you will not be able to reach shore, try to draw attention to yourself by yelling and waving, officials said.
Avoid using rope swings or diving headfirst into the water, officials said.
Be mindful of fire safety
Those visiting a state park should be mindful of fire safety, officials said.
"Open campfires should be built in clear areas away from fuels such as logs, brush or decaying leaves and needles," officials said.
You should avoid building fires larger than necessary, according to officials.
Visitors should never leave fires unattended, officials said. They should always fully extinguish fires before leaving and keep water and a shovel nearby.
Consider using the OuterSpatial app
State officials recommend visitors become well-versed in the OuterSpatial app, "your ultimate guide to California’s state parks."
The app lets visitors "navigate through a user-friendly interactive map, receive accurate directions, and stay updated in real-time for secure park exploration," officials said.
Additionally, the app integrates with what3words, which allows visitors to "communicate precise locations in emergency situations, even in remote areas," according to officials.
Planning a visit?
If you’re planning to visit a state park over Labor Day weekend, a little preparation goes a long way:
- Reserve early: Many popular parks and campsites fill up as much as six months in advance
- Expect parking fees (at non-historic parks): Day-use parks often charge per vehicle, though walking or biking in can be free
- Check park-specific rules: Hours, entry limits, and tours vary widely
- Arrive early: Popular coastal and redwood parks can hit capacity quickly
Have a fourth-grader? They get free access to 54 parks
Fourth-graders have free access to 54 state parks participating in the Free Fourth Grade Pass program, including Big Basin Redwoods State Park and the California State Railroad Museum.
To see a full list of participating parks, visit the California State Parks website here.
California’s most popular state parks: Where to go next
Looking for a park to visit? A recent statewide poll highlighted some of California’s most-loved destinations — spanning coastal views, redwoods, and desert landscapes.
Top picks from the 2026 “Best of California’s State Parks” poll include:
- Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park – Best for camping
- Big Basin Redwoods State Park – Best for hiking
- Mount Tamalpais State Park – Best for sweeping views
- Point Lobos State Natural Reserve – Best day trip
- Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve – Best for wildflowers
- Morro Bay State Park – Best for birdwatching
- Angel Island State Park – Family-friendly favorite
- Bodie State Historic Park– Top spot to learn California history
The annual poll draws votes from thousands of parkgoers and reflects the diversity of California’s system — from beaches and forests to historic sites.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Visiting a state park on Labor Day? Who gets in free, safety tips
