Newsom Defies Trump, Makes 200+ California State Parks Free on MLK Day
California Gov. Gavin Newsom has ordered free vehicle entry at more than 200 state parks on Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026, directly challenging President Donald Trump’s decision to remove the holiday from the list of fee‑free days at U.S. national parks.
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Announced just days before the holiday, Newsom’s move turns California’s vast state park system into a symbolic counterweight to Trump’s revamped federal fee‑free calendar, which dropped MLK Day and Juneteenth while adding Flag Day — the president’s birthday — and other dates critics say downplay civil rights history. Framing the decision as a stand for justice and historical memory ahead of the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, the governor is urging Californians to head outdoors, honor Dr. King’s legacy and “reaffirm our commitment to advancing civil rights for all.”
While Trump works to erase Dr. King’s legacy, California will honor it,” Newsom said in a press release. “Dr. King taught us that ‘darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that.’ While the Trump administration tries to erase his legacy and turn national parks and monuments into places of exclusion and fear, California answers with light.”
“That’s why I’m announcing free entry at California State Parks on Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026 – because Dr. King’s legacy deserves to be honored, not erased,” Newsom continued. “I’m encouraging all Californians to get outside on MLK Day, spend time in nature, reflect on Dr. King’s legacy, and reaffirm our commitment to advancing civil rights for all.”
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As the federal government eliminates fee-free park days for holidays that celebrate Black history, California continues to revel in the glory of our civil rights pioneers,” state Sen. Akilah Weber Pierson said. “Opening our parks for everyone to enjoy encourages loved ones to come together, give back, and honor Dr. King’s legacy while enjoying the natural beauty of the Golden State.”
Some of the parks offering free entry include Big Basin Redwoods, Half Moon Bay, Sugarloaf Ridge, Doheny, Wildwood Canyon Park Property, Folsom Lake, Bidwell Mansion and Lake Oroville.
Some parks will still require a fee, including off-highway vehicle recreation areas, parks with per-person or tour fees such as Hearst Castle and locations operated by partner organizations.