California Governor Gavin Newsom has taken a clear stand after the federal government removed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day from the list of free national park days. While the Donald Trump administration reshaped the national calendar, California decided to move in the opposite direction.
On Monday, January 19, 2026, more than 200 California state parks will be open with free entry to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The announcement comes just ahead of the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, making the decision even more meaningful for many residents.
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This move sends a strong message: California wants its parks to remain open, welcoming, and inclusive while encouraging people to reflect on civil rights history.
Why Did the Federal Government Remove Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day From Free Park Access?
Changes to National Park Free Days
Last month, the Trump administration changed the list of days when Americans can visit national parks for free. Several important holidays were removed, including:
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- Juneteenth
- National Public Lands Day
Instead, the administration added new dates focused on presidents and U.S. history, such as:
- Flag Day (which also falls on Trump’s birthday)
- Constitution Day
- The 110th anniversary of the National Park Service
- The birthday of Theodore Roosevelt
These changes caused criticism, especially because holidays linked to Black history and civil rights were taken out.
California’s Response: Free Entry to Over 200 State Parks
What Governor Newsom Announced
Governor Newsom said California will not follow the federal decision. Instead, the state will honor Dr. King by offering free vehicle day-use entry at more than 200 participating state parks on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026.
In his statement, Newsom said California chooses light, inclusion, and remembrance, encouraging people to spend the day outdoors while thinking about Dr. King’s legacy and the ongoing fight for equal rights.
Who Is Paying for the Free Park Access?
No Taxpayer Money Used
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day: The California State Parks Foundation is covering the cost of free entry, not taxpayers. According to the governor’s office, the goal is to:
- Keep parks operating smoothly
- Help families connect with nature
- Build lifelong appreciation for California’s natural and cultural treasures
This approach ensures parks remain funded while still allowing everyone to enjoy them on an important holiday.
Examples of Parks Offering Free Entry
Here are some popular parks that will be free on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026:
| State Park Name | Location |
|---|---|
| Big Basin Redwoods | Santa Cruz County |
| Half Moon Bay State Beach | San Mateo County |
| Sugarloaf Ridge | Sonoma County |
| Doheny State Beach | Orange County |
| Wildwood Canyon | San Bernardino County |
| Folsom Lake | Sacramento Area |
| Bidwell Mansion | Chico |
| Lake Oroville | Butte County |
Parks Where Fees May Still Apply
Not all locations are included. Some parks will still charge fees, such as:
- Off-highway vehicle recreation areas
- Parks with per-person or guided tour fees
- Special attractions like Hearst Castle
- Parks operated by partner organizations
Visitors are advised to check park details before planning their visit.
Political Reactions to the Decision
Support From State Leaders
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Democratic leaders praised the move, calling it a strong response to the federal government’s decision. They said opening parks on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day helps families come together, enjoy nature, and remember the importance of civil rights leaders.
Many leaders believe public parks should be places of unity, learning, and reflection, not exclusion.
California’s decision to open more than 200 state parks for free on Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026 sends a powerful message about values, inclusion, and remembrance.
While federal park policies have shifted away from honoring civil rights holidays, California has chosen to step forward and keep Dr. King’s legacy alive in a meaningful way.
By encouraging people to enjoy nature, reflect on history, and come together as communities, the state is turning a public holiday into a moment of connection and awareness. This move shows how state leadership can use public spaces to promote unity and honor the ongoing fight for equality.