alifornia State Parks is moving forward with rebuilding Big Basin Redwoods State Park, with the release of the proposed General Plan Amendment and setting date of Thursday, July 2, for a public hearing to review the amendment.

The 2020 CZU Fire burned nearly all facilities at Big Basin. State Parks utilized community input and experts to reimagine the rebuilding and future of Big Basin.

The General Plan Amendment ensures consistency between the Final Facilities Management Plan, approved in 2025, and General Plan for the park, which was adopted in 2013. The General Plan Amendment will be discussed in a public hearing at 9 a.m. on Thursday, July 2, at Four Points by Sheraton Santa Cruz Scotts Valley. The meeting will be hybrid. Find the virtual link here. Link

Read the General Plan Amendment and learn more about Reimagining Big Basin Redwoods on the official page.

Teachers, mark your calendars! Kids2Parks field trip application process opens July 27

Get ready for another exciting year of outdoor learning—Kids2Parks is back!

Starting Monday, July 27, teachers can apply for transportation funding through Kids2Parks, a groundbreaking park-equity program that brings elementary school students from Title 1 schools on unforgettable field trips to California State Parks.

Organized by Friends of Santa Cruz State Parks in partnership with California State Parks, Kids2Parks removes a major barrier — transportation costs — so more students can experience the wonder of nature and explore the natural, cultural, and historic treasures in our local parks.

How it works:

Who's eligible: Second through fourth grade classes at Title 1 elementary schools in Santa Cruz County and select schools in San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.

What's covered: All transportation costs—including bus rental, driver time and fuel—are paid for by the program.

When to apply: Applications are open from July 27 to Aug. 14 for field trips during the 2026-27 academic year.

Where to apply: www.thatsmypark.org/k2p

Not sure if your school qualifies? Check the full list of eligible schools.

Inspire the next generation of nature lovers through the Junior Ranger Program at Wilder

Young nature enthusiasts are invited to join a Junior Ranger Program at Wilder Ranch State Park this summer. This program is a series of events designed for explorers ages 7-12.

These free programs all start at 11 a.m. and are happening throughout the summer! Here is a look at the upcoming schedule:

June 19: Ranch Life and Farm Animals

June 26: Beach Explorers (Meet in parking lot, .75-mile walk)

July 10: Nature Explorers (.5-mile walk)

July 17: Bug Detectives

July 24: Bird Watching (.5-mile walk)

July 31: Nature Art

Parents and guardians can learn more and sign up their young adventurers online. Parking is $10 and helps Friends support the park.