What's New: Register for Reimagining Big Basin Workshop; Scarf Sale Happening Now

View this email in your browser

Online-only special: Scarves on sale!

The Friends ParkStore Scarf Sale is happening now. Find the perfect gift for your best friend, significant other, family member or yourself this Valentine's Day!

Shop our S carf Sale Collection online now through Sunday, Feb. 6, and save 40-50%. This sale is only online, no discount code needed.

Designed with floral abstract patterns or sea stars with soft blue hues, these scarves add a fun splash of color to your look. These versatile scarves can be worn as a hair covering, headband or sweatband and come in a variety of patterns. Some styles are moisture-wicking and quick-drying, perfect to use year-round.

All ParkStore proceeds benefit local state parks and beaches.

Shop now to save 40% - 50% off!

Reimagining Big Basin hosting an online survey and visioning workshop

You can participate in the Reimagining Big Basin planning process. Reimagining Big Basin is looking for your input in the prioritization and planning for Big Basin Redwoods State Park.

Reimagining Big Basin is hosting an online survey to gather information about how you used Big Basin Redwoods State Park in the past and what your priorities are for the park's future. The survey closes on Saturday, Feb. 5. Share your input on the future of the park. Take the online survey today!

Engage in the Big Basin planning process by joining the Virtual Visioning Workshop. This workshop will be held on Thursday, Feb. 17 at 6 pm. Contribute your ideas that could apply to various parts of Big Basin during this one-hour workshop. Register online.

Guided elephant seal walks happening through March 31

Guided Elephant Seal Walks are happening now through Thursday, March 31. Reserve your spot to learn about and observe the large colony of northern elephant seals at Año Nuevo State Park. Tour fees apply, see the website for details.

Groups walk through the Año Nuevo Natural Preserve on a moderate 3-mile, 2.5-hour hike led by volunteer docent naturalists offering an up close view of northern elephant seals in their natural habitat. Docents go through extensive training and are highly knowledgeable in the natural and cultural history of the park.

Año Nuevo State Park is located about 20 miles north of Santa Cruz on the west side of Highway 1. The parking fee of $10 is separate from the tour fees and supports the park. You must have a ticket to walk into the preserve area.

Reserve your spot today

Make a difference, apply now to volunteer at local state parks and beaches

You can make a difference while having fun by volunteering at state parks throughout Santa Cruz County and coastal San Mateo County. Volunteers play a critical role in park operations and there are many opportunities available:

Help bring history to life at Wilder Ranch State Park! Wilder Ranch is currently looking for volunteer docents to share the beautiful and culturally significant ranch with school groups and visitors. Apply for the upcoming docent training course starting in March 2022. Learn more.
If you are looking for a fun and unique way to give something back to your community, consider volunteering at Castro Adobe State Historic Park. Representing the Mexican Rancho period, the historic Adobe is currently being restored to interpret this significant time period in California history. Apply via email to become a volunteer at this state historic park.
Do you enjoy nature and being outdoors? Do you want to share knowledge with others and promote conservation and stewardship? Join a team of dedicated volunteers who rove the trails, interact with visitors, help monitor wildlife, operate the visitor center and contribute to the inspiration, education and enjoyment of park visitors at Half Moon Bay State Beach, Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, McNee Ranch in Montara Beach State Park and Burleigh Murray Ranch State Park. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator by email or call 650-726-8814 for more information.

Learn more about volunteer opportunities by visiting the volunteer page on our website.

DONATE

ONLINE RESOURCES

PLAN YOUR VISIT

VOLUNTEER

Local Soap - Pescadero (Honey and Oatmeal)— $6.00

Soothing all natural goat's milk soap

Lather your skin with this all-natural goat's milk soap made with soothing colloidal oatmeal and honey.

Lightly scented with sweet honey notes, this soap is perfect for sensitive skin.

ORDER NOW

Apply now to work in beautiful places!

Work with Friends! Become a Senior Visitor Services Aide at New Brighton and Seacliff State Beaches. Pay for this full time and benefited position starts at $21.40 an hour. Jobs are available now.

Friends is a nonprofit organization that works in concert with California State Parks to maintain and enhance the state parks in the Santa Cruz District. Learn more and apply online today!

#FindNewAdventure, winter hikes at Castle Rock State Park

Enjoy a winter hike at Castle Rock State Park. With more than 5,150 acres of wilderness and 34 miles of trails, the park boasts unique features such as lush forests, sandstone outcrops and a panoramic view of the Monterey Bay.

Don't spend the winter indoors, come #FindNewAdventure at Castle Rock State Park!

Castle Rock State Park is located on Highway 35 just 2 miles southeast of the junction with Highway 9. Parking is $10 and supports the park.

Forward