Golden Bear Pass

 

This free pass provides free vehicle day-use access at over 200 California State Parks-operated units. Golden Bear passes are valid from issuance until December 31 of the year in which the pass was issued.  

WHO QUALIFIES 

• Supplemental Security Income recipients. 
• Those age 62 and over whose income falls under a certain threshold.  
  • Single–Average gross monthly income from all sources not exceeding $1,564.  
  • Married–Combined average gross monthly income from all sources not exceeding $2,106.   
• CalWORKs program recipients. 
• Tribal TANF program recipients.

HOW TO OBTAIN THE GOLDEN BEAR PASS  

Prepare for the application process by reviewing the Golden Bear Pass Application Requirements. 

1. Apply and submit your documents. 
2. Get approved. 
3. Receive your pass. 
4. Enjoy free day-use entry to the parks. 

For those applying through a California Department of Social Services partnership:

• CalWORKs recipients: In partnership with the California Department of Social Services, the process for CalWORKs families moved to an online system. Families can now complete the application on their smartphone in minutes. For more information, please visit www.cdss.ca.gov/goldenbearpass. 
• Tribal TANF recipients: Please apply through your Tribal TANF administrator. California State Parks is not currently accepting mail-in or in-person applications.

In person: For the fastest processing, apply in person at designated Pass Sales Locations of the California State Park System.

Online: To apply online follow the Online Application Steps. 

By mail: Download the Golden Bear Pass Application and mail with required documents.    

USING THIS PASS 

• Information on extensions of validity periods will be posted to the Pass Renewal and Extension Information webpage. 
• Review the Terms and Conditions for full details on the use of your pass and pass benefits:  
  • Golden Bear Pass Terms and Conditions (PDF) 
  • Spanish: Términos y condiciones de usolimitado del Golden Bear Pass (PDF) 
• Once your pass is received, you may use the pass card for applicable benefits.  
• Use the resources below to find the names of the locations that accept this pass: 
  • Golden Bear Pass Park Acceptance List (PDF) 
  • Parks Pass Acceptance Map 

LOST OR STOLEN PASSES 

A lost or damaged pass may be replaced only by reapplying for the pass. No refunds can be issued. Prior to reapplying, pass applicants must email passinfo@parks.ca.gov to report the pass as lost or stolen. 

For questions or more information, please contact the Park Pass Sales Office via email at parkpassinfo@parks.ca.gov.