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California Offers Free Park Access on MLK Day 2026

1/21/2026

27 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Governor Gavin Newsom of California announced free vehicle admission on MLK Day, January 19, 2026, at over 200 state parks.
The program is funded by the California State Parks Foundation.
The move counters the Trump administration's removal of MLK Day from the National Park Service's free entry calendar.
Free entry applies across 46 counties, though some parks with per-person fees may still charge.

History

Historical Context

In 1983, Martin Luther King Jr. Day was established as a federal holiday to honor the civil rights leader's legacy. However, in 2018, the Trump administration removed it from the National Park Service's free entry calendar, limiting access to parks. In response, the California State Parks Foundation will offer free admission on January 19, 2026, promoting inclusivity and equitable access to public spaces.

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Story summary

Governor Gavin Newsom of California announced free vehicle admission on MLK Day, January 19, 2026, at over 200 state parks.
The program is funded by the California State Parks Foundation.
The move counters the Trump administration's removal of MLK Day from the National Park Service's free entry calendar.
Free entry applies across 46 counties, though some parks with per-person fees may still charge.

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