California State Parks offer free Memorial Day admission to veterans, active military
Pismo State Beach. From California State Parks. Photo by Brian Baer.
Valid military ID or discharge proof required for free admission
– California State Parks will offer free admission to 142 state park units on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26, for veterans and active and reserve military members.
The gesture honors the service of those who have served or are currently serving in the military. To receive free admission, veterans, active duty, and reserve personnel must present valid military identification or proof of discharge that is not dishonorable or due to bad conduct.
Participating locations include Pismo State Beach in San Luis Obispo County. A complete list of participating parks is available at parks.ca.gov/MemorialDay2025.
“We are proud to welcome our veterans and service members on Memorial Day as a gesture of gratitude for their dedication and sacrifice,” said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. “For those who have stood watch, carried burdens, and protected freedom, may California’s incredible landscapes offer rest, connection, and peace.”
The authority to provide reduced or free admission was established under Assembly Bill 150, signed by Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. in 2013. The legislation allows veterans and military personnel from the United States Armed Forces and the National Guard of any state to receive this benefit at participating state parks.
