Central Coast State Parks Association

The Central Coast State Parks Association (CCSPA), in partnership with the California State Parks in San Luis Obispo County, supports interpretation, education and volunteer efforts while promoting public awareness and stewardship of our natural resources and cultural heritage. Our organization is an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit. We are one of 89 similar cooperating associations across the state who work in partnership with the State Parks. We envision the development of a robust variety of programs focused on inclusive environmental education and interpretation in collaboration with California State Parks in San Luis Obispo County. By supporting these programs, we aim to foster a community of environmental stewards who understand the importance of our natural and cultural resources, how our society and ecosystems are interconnected and the role humans play in their preservation. By expanding audiences and increasing funding, our efforts will result in a stronger engagement within our uniquely diverse community. Together, we will recognize the importance of our connections to our State Parks and open spaces along the Central Coast, “where the land meets the ocean.”

Our 10 Central Coast State Parks see an estimated 10 million visitors annually. We support programming for over 10,000 students annually for school field trips. We supply firewood for over 7,000 campsites across 6 Central Coast State Parks. We give an average of $55,000 annually back to our State Parks for program expenses. We reach an estimated 300,000 people annually via social media, community events, and website traffic. We have fundraised just under $70,000 (and counting!) for the Western Monarch Trail project.