As Americans celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary this Fourth of July holiday weekend, California State Parks is encouraging residents and visitors to enjoy the outdoors safely while visiting one of the state’s more than 280 parks.
From swimming, hiking and boating to off-highway vehicle recreation and waterfront celebrations, California’s state park system offers countless opportunities to enjoy the Independence Day holiday. State Parks officials say taking a few simple precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit for everyone.
Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead by checking weather conditions and scheduling outdoor activities during cooler parts of the day whenever possible. Dressing appropriately for planned activities, wearing hats and sunglasses, applying sunscreen regularly and bringing plenty of drinking water are all recommended. Officials also advise avoiding dehydrating beverages such as alcohol and excessive caffeine while spending time outdoors.
Water safety remains one of the agency’s highest priorities during the busy holiday weekend. Visitors should always wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket when participating in water activities. State Parks notes that water-related emergencies can happen suddenly, and wearing a life jacket significantly improves the chances of survival.
Those visiting California’s beaches should be aware of dangerous rip currents. If caught in one, swimmers are advised to remain calm, avoid fighting the current, swim or float parallel to shore until free of the current, and then return to shore. Visitors should seek assistance from a lifeguard or call 911 during emergencies.
Officials also remind visitors never to dive headfirst into unfamiliar water or use rope swings, both of which can result in serious injuries.
State Parks is also emphasizing the importance of avoiding alcohol and drugs while recreating. Operating any vehicle, including boats and off-highway vehicles, while impaired is illegal and can result in arrest, citations and towing. Visitors should also check the regulations for the specific park they plan to visit, as some state parks prohibit alcohol entirely.
Fire safety remains especially important during California’s dry summer season. Fireworks are prohibited in all California state parks. Campfires should never be left unattended and should always be fully extinguished before visitors leave the area. Officials also recommend keeping water and a shovel nearby whenever campfires are permitted and building fires no larger than necessary.
Visitors are also encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and disposing of waste properly. Food wrappers, napkins and other garbage should never be left behind, even if placed next to a trash receptacle, as this may be considered illegal dumping. For areas without restroom facilities, State Parks recommends using waste alleviation gel bags or other portable toilet options. Visitors should also avoid disturbing wildlife and native plants.
In addition to safety reminders, California State Parks is offering a free special edition of its Historian Passport through the Fourth of July weekend. Released in recognition of both Juneteenth and America’s 250th anniversary, the downloadable passport highlights more than 30 California State Historic Parks where visitors can explore the state’s rich and complex history.
Those planning a holiday outing can find additional safety information covering hiking, camping, biking, boating, horseback riding and other recreational activities, along with park locations and trip-planning resources, on the California State Parks website.
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