California Offers Free Historic Park Passes for Residents in Honor of Juneteenth

California residents can now explore the state's historic parks for free for the remainder of 2026, thanks to a special initiative announced by Governor Gavin Newsom on Tuesday. The program, which offers a free version of the California State Parks Historian Passport—normally priced at $50—is part of a limited-time celebration honoring Juneteenth and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The pass provides free admission for up to four people at more than 30 participating historic state parks across the state. Residents can claim their free passes starting June 16 through July 6, with access beginning on Juneteenth and continuing through the end of the year. The initiative builds on California's "Outdoors for All" effort to expand access to natural and cultural resources.

While the Trump administration has ended free admission to national parks on Juneteenth and faces legal orders to restore exhibits on topics like slavery and climate change, California is taking a different approach. Governor Newsom emphasized that the state embraces its complex history, including sites significant to Black history, Native American heritage, and other communities. Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, the most significant state park representing Black history in California, is among the featured locations.

The free pass is supported by donations from the California State Parks Foundation and the California State Railroad Museum Foundation. Participating parks span the state, preserving stories of freedom, resilience, innovation, and community—from Gold Rush towns and military landmarks to historic homes, missions, and museums. First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom noted that the pass provides an opportunity for families to "immerse themselves in nature while gaining a deeper understanding of the remarkable place we're proud to call home."