Still Photography In State Parks
Still Photography for personal purposes is to be encouraged as a means of enhancing visitor enjoyment and extending the benefits and influences of recreational experiences. Still photography, used for news, documentary, or commercial purposes, will be permitted, subject to rules and regulations established by the Department of Parks and Recreation.
House of Happy Walls at Jack London State Historic Park
(Photo copyright California State Parks)
Photography That Does Not Require Permits
Personal Photography
Personal Photography by park visitors is allowed without specific clearance or authorization under the following conditions: 
Department of Parks and Recreation rules and regulations must be complied with at all times and
normal use fees paid. There must be no interference with other park visitors' use and enjoyment of the park. Professional props and/or sets, actors or professional models, or specialized or large motorized
equipment will not be used. Photography will take place during the normal hours that the park is open to he public. No disturbance or rearrangement of any park facility or feature will be allowed.
News Media Photography
No permit is required for news agencies in the process of gathering breaking news for television broadcast or print media. Such coverage will be with the concurrence of and under the supervision of the District Superintendent or his/her designated representative. The Deputy Director for Communications at DPR headquarters shall be advised of all significant news media photographic activity. Filming or photography for other news media (such as "magazine" formats and delayed broadcast feature programs) may require permits. Permits may also be required for still photography done in conjunction with feature or editorial print articles. A DPR staff person or docent will be made available to assist with, and provide interpretive information for, such editorial and feature photographic shoots or filming projects. Where possible, that staff person will serve as a District's Field Media Liaison.