Our Pillars

A view of Lake Tahoe from the Rubicon Trail at D.L. Bliss State Park

Preserving

The dream began when a group of locals came together to successfully stop California State Parks from completely demolishing the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion, located at Sugar Pine Point State Park, to become a lakeside campsite. They recognized the value in this and other public state parks so in 1974, they became an incorporated Cooperating Association– now called the Sierra State Parks Foundation. Today, The Foundation supports eight CA State Parks through professional and financial support, returning approximately $500,000 annually.

Restoring

We partner with CA State Parks on priority restoration projects, with the advantage of not having to go through as many bureaucratic hoops as the State agency. This allows projects to be completed much quicker and keeps the park facilities open and safe for the public to enjoy. 

Educating 

We fund State Park Interpreters –  folks who create an emotional connection between our parks, trails, and natural resources and the visitors. They do this through programs, signs, and exhibits, mainly making sure that visitors have a good experience. Programs include campfire programs, Jr. Rangers, interpretative hikes (walking, snowshoeing, kayaking, mountain biking, etc.), speaker series, virtual and in-person school field trips and so much more. Did we mention we keep these programs free-of-cost to educate and inspire learners of all ages?! 

The Foundation also operates historic house tours of the Hellman-Ehrman Mansion and Vikingsholm Castle to make history accessible to the public! 

Advocating 

Our representatives participate on Park Advocacy Day at the capital to ensure our park needs are at the forefront of our locally elected representatives’ minds. In addition, we provide input and collaborate with local organizations to protect our parks and people.