Show Off Your California National Park Photography In The Foundation’s New Photo Contest – Here’s How To Submit

It’s no secret that California loves its national parks. With over 280 state parks, 340 miles of coastline, and 5,200 miles of trails, there’s plenty to explore across the entire state. Well, nature lovers, rejoice! You can now submit your photography from parks around the state in a new competition from the California State Park Foundation – and you just might win an annual entry pass! A new contest is now open to photographers through September 30 . Free and open to all experience levels, entrants can submit their favorite photos in hopes of being featured in the California State Park Foundation’s 2026 calendar . The winning photographers will receive a copy of the calendar as well as a California Explorer Vehicle Day Use Annual Pass , which provides access to 134 state parks and is valued at $195. “This is a fun opportunity for Californians to highlight and raise awareness for the parks they love,” Rachel Norton, executive director of California State Parks Foundation, told *KTLA*. “With hundreds of state parks around the state, we expect to see a diversity of photos that include beaches, mountains, urban parks, rivers, people enjoying nature, and more .” According to the website, three photo submissions are allowed per category: * Scenic Landscapes — Natural beauty across all seasons * Wildlife & Nature — Flora, fauna, and ecosystems * Recreation & Activities — Hiking, surfing, camping, and more * People in Parks — Enjoying parks responsibly and sustainably * California History — Cultural and historic sites in parks Photos must be taken by the person submitting them in a California state park. Watermarked, low-resolution, or ineligible photos will be disqualified. Photographers under 18 must have permission to submit from a parent or guardian. All winners receive a free calendar. The foundation will also give out honorable mentions and will showcase their photos in an online gallery and across social media. Winners will be notified in December 2025. View rules and submit to the contest over on their website. See also: This Hack Grants You Free Vehicle Entry To 200+ California State Parks ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Source: https://secretlosangeles.com/photo-content-california-state-park-foundation/