National Association of State Park Directors
First Day Hikes The Nation’s 250th Anniversary was rung in by over 73,000 Visitors Participating in First Day Hikes Across the Country More than 73, 000 Americans hiked approximately 150,000 miles in America’s State Parks on January 1st. Visitors climbed lighthouse stairs in Ohio, explored burnt orange sandstone in Utah, hiked through snow squalls in Rhode Island, and watched the sunrise in Hawaii. In all, over 1,000 parks hosted events. A visitor from Auburn Valley State Park in Delaware...
Explore
STIHL Inc. is thrilled to continue its support of the Hearts of STIHL program, a powerful initiative devoted to protecting and preserving our nation’s state parks. Inspired by the passion and dedication of America’s State Parks staff, Hearts of STIHL champions the people and programs that care for these treasured landscapes—helping ensure they remain vibrant, welcoming, and unforgettable for generations of Americans to enjoy. In 2026, the Hearts of STIHL program will award grants to o...
Explore
Plan for Action THE CRISIS The way children understand and experience their natural world has changed radically over the past several decades. Their physical contact and intimacy with the natural outdoors has diminished greatly. Their inability to connect with nature is now recognized as a national issue of concern. There is speculation that the loss of a child/nature connection threatens their independent judgment, their value of place, their ability to feel awe and wonder, their sense of stew...
Explore
Bronco Wild Fund (BWF) is continuing support for America’s State Parks by promoting our shared goal of helping increase access to the outdoors. We are excited to offer funding, distributed in January of 2026, to kick off the new year by funding new programs. BWF is providing funds for new introductory access programs in state parks. The overall goal is to get more people outdoors, build their skills to connect outside in the future and tackle barriers to engaging in new outdoor activities. ...
Explore
Mission Statement: The Reservation Systems & Business Management Association (RSBMA) fosters collaboration among state, national and provincial park leaders, to develop and improve reservation systems and operational tools. We work together to exchange knowledge regarding best practices and policies that will enhance visitor experiences and ensure the enduring stewardship of our parks....
Explore
Governor Newsom and First Partner Siebel Newsom announce California State Parks’ FREE Fourth Grade Pass Now Available for 2026/27 School Year
July 2026 VISTAS Newsletter
Minnesota DNR enhances Junior Ranger program
The mission of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD) is to promote and advance the state park systems of America for their own significance, as well as for their important contributions to the nation’s environment, heritage, health, and economy.
State park systems can stimulate each state's economy through tourism, relocation, recreation, and even air-quality for nearby residents. Outdoor recreation can reduce juvenile crime, promote closeness within families, and build community involvement. Spending time in state parks promotes exercise, good health, inspiration, self-realization, and life enrichment. Supporting state park systems ensures that natural and cultural resources are preserved for the next generation. Children growing up in a culture of smart phones and computers can benefit greatly from spending time outdoors in state parks.
