As Valentine's Day approaches, it's the perfect time to fall in love with California's state parks and the unique experiences they offer! From vibrant wildflower blooms to the mesmerizing monarch butterfly migration, these natural wonders provide countless opportunities to create cherished memories. Make the love last all year long with these five activities you’ll adore in 2025: 
 

1. Love Mother Earth this April

Join California State Parks Foundation for Earth Day Climate Action through various in-person volunteer workdays across the state. These events offer a chance to connect with nature and contribute to preserving our beloved parks. Additionally, online educational resources will be available throughout the month to deepen your understanding of environmental stewardship. Opt into California State Parks Foundation emails to receive up-to-date information on this one-of-a-kind celebration of Earth Day and our California state parks. 
 

2. Enjoy Wildflower Blooms

Nothing says love like a bouquet of flowers, and nature is excellent at providing her own! Springtime in California state parks is a kaleidoscope of colors as wildflowers blanket the landscapes. Parks like Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve and Chino Hills State Park are renowned for their stunning displays of poppies, lupines, and other native flowers. Remember not to doom the bloom to ensure these blooms continue to thrive. Stay on designated trails, avoid trampling plants, and recreate responsibly. Want to learn more about wildflowers in California state parks? Download our FREE wildflower guide here.  
 

3. Camp Under the Stars

Summer is an ideal time to bond with family and friends in the great outdoors by camping in California's state parks. Popular destinations such as Sue-meg State Park and Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park offer picturesque settings for a memorable camping experience with loved ones. Given the high demand, making reservations well in advance through ReserveCalifornia is wise. Plus, when you become a California State Parks Foundation member, you receive 10% off camping in most California state parks! While enjoying your stay, practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash and minimizing your environmental impact. Want to learn more about camping in California state parks? Download our FREE camping guide here.  
 

4. Witness the Autumn Foliage 

As autumn arrives, certain California state parks transform into a tapestry of warm hues. Henry W. Coe State Park, for instance, showcases big leaf maples turning bright yellow and black oaks can include some reds. To preserve these seasonal spectacles, always recreate responsibly by staying on marked paths and respecting park guidelines.  
 

5. Marvel at the Monarch Migration 

During the winter months, wrap yourself in a cozy sweater and feel that fluttery, butterflies-in-your-tummy kind of wonder as you witness the awe-inspiring migration of western monarch butterflies at parks like Natural Bridges State Beach and the Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove. These areas serve as crucial overwintering sites for the dwindling monarch butterfly population. Unfortunately, the western monarch butterflies in North America are under threat of extinction. A recent analysis found that the probability of the species we love going extinct by 2080 is 95 percent.  To support their conservation, consider signing the petition to protect western monarch butterflies under the Endangered Species Act.  
 

By engaging in these activities, you not only create lasting loving memories but also contribute to the preservation of California's natural treasures. To further showcase your love for parks, consider donating to the California State Parks Foundation. Your generosity will help protect and maintain these beloved parks in 2025 and beyond!  

This Valentine's Day, let's show our love for California's state parks by sharing your favorite park moments on social media! Whether it’s a breathtaking sunset, a peaceful hike, or a special memory, tag us @calparks on Instagram, X, and Facebook, and @californiaparks on Bluesky.