California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that all state parks will be open for free on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a move that stands in contrast to recent Trump administration policies emphasizing reduced government spending and user fees.
Under Newsom’s directive, visitors will not be charged entry fees at any California state park on the holiday, a change intended to encourage broader public access to outdoor recreation and support community celebration of Dr. King’s legacy.
The governor framed the decision as part of a larger commitment to expanding access to public lands and ensuring that families and individuals from all backgrounds can enjoy natural spaces without financial barriers.
Newsom’s announcement comes as debates over federal versus state approaches to land management and public access continue, with California pursuing its own initiatives even when they diverge from priorities set by the Trump administration.
The free parks day is expected to draw visitors across California and reflects ongoing efforts by state leaders to promote outdoor recreation and inclusive use of public resources.