The Parks California is seeking applications for its 2027 Route to Parks Grant Program.
Donor Name: Parks California
State: California
County: All Counties
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 07/31/2026
Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000
Grant Duration: 1 Year
Details:
At Parks California, they believe everyone deserves a world-class park experience and the opportunity to create a lifelong connection with nature. However, barriers like limited transportation options can prevent many from enjoying the great outdoors. To bridge this gap, they launched the Route to Parks grants program in 2020. This initiative supports local organizations in overcoming transportation challenges, ensuring historically marginalized communities can visit and enjoy California State Parks.
Together, they are fostering connections with nature. In just four years, they have supported over 120 organizations in creating transformative outdoor experiences. they are excited to continue this journey and proud to offer the grants program for a seventh cycle, bringing nature closer to all. This initiative thrives on a robust public-private partnership, supported by private fundraising by Parks California, and the California Department of Parks and Recreation’s Waterway Connections Initiative. Route to Parks is aligned with the goals of California Natural Resources Agency’s Outdoors for All program. Through this partnership, Parks California is excited to once again expand the Route to Parks grants program, introducing even more opportunities for water-related outdoor access and experiences. Through these efforts, they aim to improve park access for all Californians so they can create authentic connections with nature.
For the 2027 grant cycle, they are seeking proposals that address the following criteria:
- Remove access barriers, including transportation, to California State Parks;
- Reach underserved communities that may face challenges getting to or enjoying parks, and/or lack opportunities to create meaningful connections to nature;
- Offer valuable recreational, environmental, cultural or historical learning experiences, a majority of which take place at California State Parks;
- Strengthen collaboration and partnership between applicants and California State Parks.
- Coordination with relevant California State Parks staff is required prior to application.
Funding Information
Parks California anticipates grant awards will average between $25,000 and $30,000.
Grant Period
January 1, 2027 to December 31, 2027.
Eligibility Criteria
Nonprofit Organizations are eligible to apply.
For more information, visit Parks California.
