California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a special free Historian Passport for state historic parks, available for download from June 17 through July 6, 2026, celebrating Juneteenth and America's 250th anniversary. This initiative offers free access to over 30 state historic parks for the remainder of 2026, contrasting with the Trump administration's national park policies. The passport, typically $50, grants admission for up to four people per pass, allowing unlimited visits from Juneteenth until year-end, aiming to immerse Californians in the state's "unvarnished, complex history" and expand the "Outdoors for All" initiative.
Governor Newsom emphasized California's commitment to confronting historical truths. "California doesn’t hide from hard truths and uncomfortable history – in fact, we embrace it and learn from it," Governor Gavin Newsom said. "While Trump ignores and tries to rewrite the past, California is marking these celebrations of freedom by inviting everyone to learn our country’s history – our real history – for free in our state parks." First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom highlighted the pass's role in helping families explore nature and understand California's heritage.
The announcement underscores a divergence from federal policies. While President Donald Trump has ended free national park admission on Juneteenth and removed historical exhibits, California actively preserves and makes its history accessible. A federal judge recently ordered the Trump administration to reinstall exhibits on topics like slavery and climate change. California State Parks, through its "Reexamining Our Past Initiative," aims to tell the state's full story, supported by the California State Parks Foundation and the California State Railroad Museum Foundation.
California State Parks Director Armando Quintero expressed hope that the free Historian Passport would introduce more Californians to the state's historic gems, fostering curiosity and a sense of belonging. Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D., Chair of the California Legislative Black Caucus, noted that widening access helps ensure public lands are places where everyone can learn and benefit, especially given historical exclusions faced by Black Americans.
Participating parks include Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, representing Black history; Indian Grinding Rock State Historic Park, showcasing Native American heritage; Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park, detailing the Gold Rush; and Weaverville Joss House State Historic Park, preserving Chinese American contributions. These sites offer diverse stories of freedom, resilience, innovation, and community.
Beyond this limited-time offer, California State Parks provides several year-round free passes, such as the California State Library Parks Pass, California State Parks Adventure Pass for fourth graders, Golden Bear Pass for income-eligible residents, and the Distinguished Veterans Pass. These programs reflect a historic investment of over $1 billion to expand parks and access, prioritizing underserved communities and fostering a sense of belonging for all Californians outdoors.