General Info

The California Department of Parks and Recreation manages more than 270 park units that offer a collection of natural, cultural and recreational resources. Its park units include underwater preserves; redwood, rhododendron and wildlife reserves; state beaches, reservoirs, waterslides and recreational areas; Spanish-era adobe buildings; lighthouses; ghost towns; and conference centers. These parks protect and preserve threatened plant and animal species, ancient Native American sites, historic structures and artifacts. The California Department of Parks and Recreation manages an area of more than 1.4 million acres, which includes over 280 miles of coastline; nearly 625 miles of lake and river frontage; and approximately 3,000 miles of hiking, biking and equestrian trails. Additionally, it provides various activities, such as fishing, horseback riding, windsurfing, scuba diving, swimming, wildlife viewing, hiking trails, and family, group and environmental camping. The California Department of Parks and Recreation maintains a location in Arroyo Grande, Calif.