CHICO, Calif. — The California State Parks Foundation is inviting park visitors and photography enthusiasts to showcase the beauty of California’s state parks through its annual photo contest.
Submissions are open through September 21. There is no entry fee, and participants can submit up to three photos per category.
Photos must be taken in a California state park and can be submitted in five categories:
Scenic Landscapes — Natural beauty across all seasonsWildlife & Nature — Flora, fauna and ecosystemsRecreation & Activities — Hiking, surfing, camping and morePeople in Parks — Enjoying parks responsibly and sustainablyCalifornia History — Cultural and historic sites in parks
Category winners will receive a complimentary California State Parks Foundation membership, which includes a California Explorer Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass valued at $195. Winners will also be featured in the foundation’s 2028 calendar.
Honorable mentions will be featured in an online gallery and on social media.
Photos will be judged based on creativity and originality, technical quality, relevance to the category, emotional impact and storytelling, and aesthetic appeal.
Photos taken at national parks or other locations outside California’s state park system are not eligible.
For contest rules, photo guidelines, and submission information, visit calparks.org/photocontest.