California State Parks: Weekly Digest - Oct. 16, 2026
This bulletin was sent at 10/16/2026 06:15 PM PDT
Oct. 16, 2026
PHOTO OF THE WEEK
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
A juvenile desert horned lizard (Phrynosoma platyrhinos) at the park.
Photos from Natalie Penney, Colorado Desert District
WHAT'S NEW
State Park Peace Officers Rescue Woman Trapped in Burning Car in Sutter County
Story from: Adeline Yee, Communications and Marketing Division
Screenshot from in-car camera showing two Supervising State Park Peace Officers running to rescue a woman in a burning car along State Route 70. Photo from California State Parks.
Two California State Park Peace Officers risked their lives to rescue a woman from a burning car early Friday morning in Sutter County. Around 6:40 a.m. Oct. 16, Supervising State Park Peace Officers Dylan Ayache and Ryan Gray were driving south on State Route 70 from Butte County to the State Park training facility in Sacramento County when they came across the car turned over on the side of the Nicolaus exit, fully engulfed in flames. As the first trained emergency responders on the scene, the officers acted quickly and braved the flames to pull the woman to safety within minutes. The woman, 46, of Plumas Lake, was conscious and taken to a local hospital for treatment. She was released later in the day. Sutter County Fire and the California Highway Patrol also responded.
In-car camera footage of the rescue from the State Park vehicle is available at this link.
“The actions of Supervising Peace Officers Ayache and Gray exemplify the courage, selflessness and dedication that define State Parks’ law enforcement professionals,” said Alex Luscutoff, Chief of Law Enforcement and Emergency Services Division, California State Parks. “Their quick thinking and willingness to run toward danger saved a woman’s life, and we are incredibly proud of their bravery and extraordinary heroism.”
Supervising State Park Peace Officers who rescued a woman from a burning car in Sutter County on Oct. 16. Left: Supervising Ranger Dylan Ayache. Right: Supervising Ranger Ryan Gray. Photos from California State Parks.
New Blog Post: Two State Parks That Rank Among the World’s Top Fossil Sites
Story from: Jo Biswas, Communications and Marketing Division
Anza-Borrego Desert and Red Rock Canyon state parks contain some of the richest fossil records in the world. Photos from California State Parks.
Did you know that two of California’s most magnificent state parks are also world-class fossil hotspots? Beneath the sands of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park (SP) and Red Rock Canyon SP lie some of the world’s richest fossil records that offer glimpses into prehistoric worlds and draw scientists and history buffs from around the globe.
Anza-Borrego Desert SP protects one of the richest fossil records in North America, with remains from over 500 species spanning approximately eight million years of prehistory. It's also the only California state park with its own paleontology department ... and the collection is extraordinary! The fossils found there document everything from Ice Age megafauna to tiny rodent teeth and desert tortoise shells.
Red Rock Canyon SP is another fossil-rich state park that draws universities and professional paleontologists from across the country. Hidden beneath its dramatic landscape are sedimentary layers spanning 55 million to 65 million years, preserving fossils unrivaled west of the Rockies. More than 100 species have been identified here, ranging from woody plants and small rodents to giraffe-like camels, three-toed horses, elephants, primitive dogs and saber-toothed cats.
In honor of National Fossil Day on Oct. 14, read more about the prehistoric treasures of both parks in our latest blog post here.
And watch this video on Instagram for a behind-the-scenes look at the work going on at Anza-Borrego Desert SP's Stout Research Center.
Orange Coast District Tackles Coastal Storm Damage at Three State Parks
Story from: Orange Coast District and Jo Biswas, Communications and Marketing Division
Recent large surf and tides caused damage to several state beaches in Orange County. Photos from Orange Coast District and Communications and Marketing Division.
The Orange Coast District team has been hard at work over the week, responding to significant coastal erosion, flooding and infrastructure damage at Crystal Cove State Park (SP), Doheny State Beach (SB) and San Onofre SB following recent large surf and elevated tides from Tropical Storm Rachel and Kelvin waves.
From clearing storm debris and repairing damaged water lines to stabilizing coastal bluffs and protecting historic structures, staff are tackling a wide range of challenges to restore public access and essential services. They are also coordinating with partner agencies, including the California Coastal Commission and Caltrans, on repairs and longer-term coastal resilience measures.
At Crystal Cove SP, coastal erosion and unstable bluffs have forced closures of portions of the beach, beach access trails and some historic cottages. Crews have been deploying sandbags and installing temporary supports to protect the park's historic beach cottages, repairing damaged utilities and addressing bluff instability. Emergency repairs are also underway to stabilize the seawall behind Cottage 13.
At Doheny SB, coastal flooding and the accumulation of storm-related debris throughout the park have impacted facilities and resulted in temporary parking restrictions. Maintenance teams have been removing debris, clearing affected areas and servicing stormwater drainage systems to prepare for additional flooding. The beach remains open to visitors as recovery work continues.
At San Onofre SB, flooding and erosion have significantly damaged Surf Beach's access road, parking areas, restrooms and water infrastructure. The access road remains closed to vehicles, but visitors can still access Surf Beach on foot or by bicycle, except in designated work areas. Crews are working to repair the damaged water line and restore restroom facilities.
Recovery efforts are ongoing, and State Parks staff and partners continue to work hard to protect these treasured Orange County parks, repair the damage and safely restore public access. A huge thank you to everyone involved in the response and recovery efforts!
Orange Coast District staff help with the cleanup and restoration efforts at Crystal Cove SP. Photos from Orange Coast District.
Thousands Gather to Celebrate 50 Years of Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park
Story from: Jo Biswas, Communications and Marketing Division
Scenes from the celebration, clockwise from top left: A Buffalo Soldier reenactor on horseback interacts with visitors; live music and dancing; a family enjoys the festivities; State Parks Director Armando Quintero addresses the crowd; Anita Zachary, great-granddaughter of Lt. Col. Allen and Josephine Allensworth, delivers the keynote address; Great Basin District Superintendent Russ Dingman speaks during the ceremony; a participant takes part in the annual Colonel Allensworth 5K Run/Walk for Health. Photos from Brian Baer, Communications and Marketing Division.
History came alive at Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park on Oct. 10, as thousands of visitors and community partners gathered to celebrate the landmark 50th anniversary of the park’s Annual Rededication Celebration and honor the extraordinary legacy of a California town founded, financed and governed by African Americans more than a century ago.
The park's 50th Annual Rededication Celebration was filled with history, music, dancing and festivities. Visitors explored historic and reconstructed buildings, watched Buffalo Soldier reenactments, toured the historic Allensworth Cemetery and enjoyed live performances by the West Coast Blues Society and the Inglewood Guys and Dolls. The day also featured the annual Colonel Allensworth 5K Run/Walk for Health.
Highlights of the main ceremony included a powerful keynote address by Anita Zachary, great-granddaughter of Lt. Col. Allen and Josephine Allensworth, and a special recorded message from Smithsonian Institute Secretary Lonnie G. Bunch III (click here to hear the recorded message). The ceremony also featured remarks from California State Parks Director Armando Quintero, Great Basin District Superintendent Russ Dingman and other guests.
The celebration was a proud moment for everyone who has helped preserve Allensworth's history and share its inspiring story with generations of Californians. Behind the scenes, the Great Basin District team spent months preparing for this milestone event, from painting, rebuilding and improving park facilities to coordinating event logistics, conducting outreach and handling countless other details to make sure the park was ready to welcome thousands of visitors.
Kudos to the team for their months of hard work and dedication that helped make this milestone celebration such a success!
Story from: Kathy Amann, President of the California State K9 Foundation and former Deputy Director of Park Operations
K-9 Boris lived a full life with his handler, Chief Ranger Mike Dippel with the Monterey District. He was well loved by his family, especially Mike's daughter, Chloe, pictured in the middle frame. Photos from Mike Dippel, Monterey District.
It is with great sadness that we say goodbye to another of our beloved K-9 heroes.
Boris was just one year old when he and his partner, Officer Mike Dippel, began their journey together. Throughout his distinguished career, they served at Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA), Lake Perris State Recreation Area and Oceano Dunes SVRA.
From 2014 to 2019, Boris served as a dual-purpose narcotics detection and apprehension K-9.
His excitement when responding to emergency calls, and his remarkable ability to bring dangerous situations under control through his mere presence, were extraordinary to witness. Throughout his career, Boris was credited with countless narcotics finds, multiple suspect apprehensions and assistance to fellow law enforcement agencies. He earned the highest respect of his fellow officers.
Boris was an exceptionally intuitive dog, effortlessly transitioning from the fierce protector of park visitors and California's precious natural resources to the beloved favorite of local schoolchildren, who were in awe of his beauty and strength.
For all his power and commanding presence, Boris had an incredibly gentle side, especially when it came to children.
I had the distinct pleasure of watching Boris train alongside Mike and his fellow K-9 colleagues on many occasions. He was truly a magnificent dog, always ready for a friendly pat or a little playtime.
Upon retirement, Boris transitioned into the most wonderful family companion, continuing to watch over and protect those he loved. He enjoyed hiking, playing in the snow, running along the beach and simply relaxing on the couch watching movies with his family.
Boris passed away last weekend peacefully at home in his sleep, surrounded by the life and love he had come to know. He was 13 1/2 years old.
In speaking with Mike about Boris's passing, he shared something that touched me deeply:
"Hearing from many people today about how Boris inspired them to want to become a handler has brought me to tears over and over."
What a remarkable legacy for a remarkable dog. Boris not only protected and served, but inspired others to follow in his footsteps.
Please join the California State Park K9 Foundation in extending our heartfelt condolences to Mike and his family. May the sadness of Boris's passing eventually give way to a lifetime of wonderful memories of their extraordinary companion.
Rest easy, Boris. Your watch has ended, but our commitment never does. 🐾
Volunteers in Parks ProgramPublishes 2025 Annual Report
Story from: Rachel Young, Partnerships Division
Clockwise from top: California State Capitol Museum staff and volunteers join State Parks Director Armando Quintero (far right) for a group photo at the CA 175 Block Party, celebrating 175 years of California’s statehood. Photo from Megan Stanley, Capitol District. Mary Beth McGowan, tidepool volunteer, at Crystal Cove State Park (SP). Photo from Mary Beth McGowan, Volunteers in Parks Program (VIPP) Volunteer. Auburn State Recreation Area Canyon Keepers Peggy Egli, Cathie Gause, Gayle Huges, Kristi Meyer, David Stryker and Lori Wolf with Senior Park Aide James Oslie. Photo from Joseph Shanahan, Gold Fields District. Andrea Broughton and Katharine Hullinger, Empire Mine State Historic Park volunteers. Photo from Mary Ann Coleman, VIPP Volunteer.
The Volunteers in Parks Program (VIPP) is proud to announce the publication of the 2025 VIPP Annual Report, which highlights the extraordinary impact of the thousands of dedicated individuals who donate their time, energy, and knowledge to California State Parks.
Last year, 33,771 volunteers contributed 784,619 service hours – an astounding contribution valued at over $37.7 million. California State Parks, its staff and visitors all greatly benefited from the presence, hard work, talent and dedication of volunteers, all of which this report is showcasing.
From natural and cultural resource stewardship to public safety, visitor services and interpretive programs, in 2025, VIPP volunteers, once again, demonstrated how essential they are to fulfilling California State Parks’ mission. Many popular park programs and critical operations simply would not be possible without their passion and dedication.
We also extend our deepest appreciation to the volunteer coordinators, superintendents and other field staff whose behind-the-scenes work keeps this robust program thriving.
To our amazing volunteers: thank you for your unwavering commitment to preserving and protecting California’s state parks.
Clockwise from top left: Humboldt Redwoods SP visitor center volunteers Tammy Carmelich, Alyssa Holt, Denise Stephens and Jess Stephins. Photo from Mary Kaufman, Humboldt Redwoods Interpretive Association. Henry Cowell Redwoods SP volunteers Heather Glanz and Suzie Shook. Photo from Orenda Randuch, VIPP Volunteer. Desert paleontology volunteers Marsha Boring and Kwasi Gilbert. Photo from Amanda DiVita, VIPP volunteer. Half Moon Bay State Beach volunteers Avis Boutel, Kyle Gerner and Carolyn Weng with volunteer coordinator Elexis Padron. Photo from Elexis Padron, Santa Cruz District.
California State Railroad Museum Unveils Illuminated Lantern Display
Story from: California State Railroad Museum
The Lantern Project now on display at the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento. Photo from California State Parks.
Visitors to the California State Railroad Museum in Sacramento are now welcomed by the Lantern Project, a new illuminated display featuring 204 historic railroad lanterns. The installation is part of a multi-phased, multi-year lobby renovation supported by California State Parks, the California State Railroad Museum Foundation and donors.
Combining historic artifacts with modern LED lighting, the display offers an “open storage” look at a portion of the museum’s collection of more than 500 lanterns. Each lantern tells a story about railroad history, from ornate presentation lanterns honoring conductors to colorful signal lanterns used to communicate and help keep railroad workers safe.
Museum staff collaborated with Bekonix to design and create 204 custom 3D-printed flames, bringing the display to life. The project is one step toward a refreshed and redesigned museum lobby.
For more information, visit the California State Railroad Museum website.
To view current job openings within California State Parks, please visit our jobs webpage at www.LiveTheParksLife.com.
State Parks Job Spotlights and Open Exams
JOB SPOTLIGHTS
Graphic Designer III(Sacramento) — Apply by Oct. 26: Love bringing history to life through creative design? Join the Capital District team and help create engaging exhibits, eye-catching graphics, interactive experiences, videos, and virtual tours at some of California’s most treasured historic sites. From the State Capitol Museum to Sutter’s Fort, your creativity will help make California’s history fun, accessible, and unforgettable!Click here to learn more.
Management Services Technician (PI) (Carlsbad) — Apply by Oct. 17: The San Diego Coast District is looking for an organized, resourceful team player to support daily operations, from managing fiscal tasks and campground reservations to helping visitors with questions and annual passes. If you enjoy keeping things on track while making a positive impact, this opportunity is for you! Clickhere to learn more.
Supervisor I (Monterey) — Apply by Oct. 22: The Monterey District is looking for a motivated Supervisor I to lead its Administrative Team and oversee budgets, accounting, contracts, purchasing, and front office operations. This is a great opportunity to put your leadership and problem-solving skills to work while supporting staff, encouraging teamwork, and helping the District run smoothly. If you enjoy tackling challenges, finding solutions, and bringing out the best in others, this could be the perfect next step in your career! Click here to learn more.
EXAM SPOTLIGHTS
Laborer (Oct. 31): Looking to work outdoors and make a hands-on impact in California’s beautiful state parks? As a State Park Laborer, you will support park operations by performing a wide range of physical tasks, from clearing trails and cleaning facilities to assisting with maintenance and landscaping. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys active, outdoor work and takes pride in keeping park spaces safe, clean, and welcoming for all visitors. Apply to take the assessment today! Click here for more information.
State Archaeologist Classification Series (Nov. 30): The State Archaeologist series includes roles focused on the discovery, evaluation, and preservation of California’s archaeological and cultural resources. These exciting roles may involve field surveys, excavations, research, policy development, and collaboration with other agencies to manage and protect cultural sites and materials. Take the assessment to help safeguard California’s heritage and support meaningful cultural resource management. Click here for more information.
WORKSHOP SPOTLIGHT
Discover exciting career opportunities with California State Parks at our upcoming virtual webinars! Learn everything you need to know about the application process, assessments, and state hiring, all while getting your questions answered by our expert recruiters. Don’t miss this chance to gain valuable insights and take the first step toward your dream job. Click here for dates andregistration info.
If you have any questions regarding these opportunities, connect with us at Recruiting@parks.ca.gov. We’re happy to help!
Interested in more jobs and exams like this? Explorewww.LiveTheParksLife.com to discover the possibilities.
Join the Parks Jobs mailing list here. We can send you updates on jobs and exams that interest you!
LIVE THE PARKS LIFE IN STYLE
Style time! Here are this week's tips to help spread the word about our departmentwide style guidelines:
everyday/every day: Use one word “everyday” if used as an adjective meaning “ordinary” or “typical”; e.g., Her visit to the park is an everyday occurrence. Use two words “every day” if used as an adverb meaning “daily” or “every weekday”; e.g., They go to get coffee every day.
measurements: Use numerals for inches, feet, yards, etc., to indicate depth, height, length and width. Examples: The branch is 6 inches long. She is standing 3 feet from the squirrel.
K-9: Hyphenate.
Keeping a consistent writing style ensures the Weekly Digest looks and sounds its best. Each week, the Communications and Marketing Division reviews submitted articles for proper grammar and punctuation and style consistency –– from capitalization and hyphenation to proper acronyms and active/passive voice usage. We follow our State Parks editorial style guide –– available here. For all questions that aren't addressed in our style guide, we follow the Associated Press style and Merriam-Webster.
We always welcome your feedback on how to “Live the Parks Life” in (writing) style. Connect with us via email at weeklydigest@parks.ca.gov.
Park volunteers participated in brakeman training this week, which helps them develop essential railroad operating skills and reinforces safe practices. Our volunteers' dedication helps preserve California's railroad heritage and keeps our historic trains rolling for future generations.
Photo from Daniel Lewis, Central Valley District
Marshall Gold Discovery State Historic Park
State Parks staff to the rescue! A skunk got its head stunk in a plastic bottle near the sawmill early Saturday morning during the 3-day Coloma Gold Rush Live! event. Thanks to Park Maintenance Worker I Mike Rooney (right), Seasonal Park Maintenance Worker Ian Beard (middle) and Seasonal Senior Park Maintenance Worker Emily Fleming (left), they managed to rescue the skunk without getting sprayed. See the rescue at the links below. Video was captured by Wes Murrish, park volunteer, and edited by Angie Lee, student assistant with the Communications and Marketing Division.
Photo from Wes Murrish, volunteer and Gold Discovery Park Association member
Empire Mine State Historic Park
A gorgeous fall day in front of the historic Bourn Cottage. Back row (left to right): Student Assistant Angie Lee, Interpreter I Wyatt Grognet, Information Officer II Jorge Moreno, Superintendent II Sasha Wessitsh, Supervising Ranger Ryan Randar. Front row (left to right): Interpreter I Jean Rhyne, Information Officer II Adeline Yee and Ranger/K-9 Handler Martin Gilbertson with K-9 Ivan.
Photo from Adeline Yee, Communications and Marketing Division
Millerton Lake State Recreation Area
October means MLB postseason! And baseball players have their own walk-up songs. 🎶 But ... what if our K-9 teams had walk-up songs, too? 🤩 🐾 These all-stars deserve their own songs!
Video from Ann Hagerman, North Coast Redwoods District
Anza-Borrego Desert State Park
Sidewinder rattlesnakes (Crotalus cerastes) in their favorite positions.
Photos from Natalie Penney, Colorado Desert District
Salt Point State Park
Large surf at sunset.
Photo from Matthew Richards, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District
Sonoma Coast State Park
Cathedral of the Ancients: Light streams through the trees at the park's Pomo Canyon Environmental Camp.
Photo from Matthew Richards, Sonoma-Mendocino Coast District
Discover events happening in parks near you! Explore our interactive event calendar and map at parks.ca.gov/events. Here is a small selection of the hundreds of park events happening statewide (the numbers on the map indicate the location of the events below):
Borrego Days Desert Festival! — Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, Saturday, Oct. 17, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 18, 9 a.m.–noon: Event Fee: Free. Park Day-Use Fee: See event details for information on fees. Borrego Days Desert Festival! Borrego Springs annual desert festival. Meet park staff at a display table at Christmas Circle to learn about the wonders and recreational opportunities at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. For more information or if you have any questions, please contact: mcclanahan@parks.ca.gov.
16th Annual Apple Festival — Palomar Mountain State Park, Saturday, Oct. 17, 11 a.m.–3 p.m. Event Fee: Park Day-Use Fee: $10 | Cash, Check, Card accepted. There is a $10 parking fee and minor fees for some of our activities, but other than that the event is free thanks to our Cooperating Association, the Friends of Palomar Mountain State Park. There will be freshly made apple cider, applewood jewelry making, corn husk dolls, face painting and balloons, live bluegrass music, a pie eating contest, and hot chili! Come dressed in your best period attire: late 1800s. See you there!
17th Annual Asian American Neighborhood Festival — El Presidio de Santa Barbara State Historic Park, Sunday, Oct. 18, 11–3 p.m. Event Fee: Park Day-Use Fee: $5 | Cash, Check, Card accepted. Held in the heart of the Presidio Neighborhood, this free, family-friendly outdoor event celebrates Santa Barbara's AAPI communities, cultures and history with live performances, walking tours, artisan vendors, hands-on activities, and educational booths. For more information, visit here.
"The Curse of the Gold Miner's Necklace" Halloween Tours — Leland Stanford Mansion State Historic Park, Wednesday, Oct. 22, through Thursday, Oct. 29, 1–8 p.m.: Event Fee: Free. Park Day-Use Fee: See event details for information on fees. Dare to visit Leland Stanford Mansion to experience the mystery of “The Curse of the Gold Miner’s Necklace”. Explore frightfully decorated rooms filled with dark tales of history and mystery as you help break the curse. Listen carefully — ill-fated apparitions may be lurking around every turn! Reservations are required through ReserveCalifornia.
Climate Action Day — Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Friday, Oct. 23, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Event Fee: Free. Park Day-Use Fee: $10 | Cash, Card accepted. Celebrate International Day of Climate Action at Point Lobos with stories of resilience, wildlife and hope. This family-friendly event invites you to learn how climate change is affecting animals, discover solutions and imagine a healthier future for our shared planet. Attending this event is free and there is a $10 vehicle day-use fee. Wear layers as the weather along the coast can be variable. Stations will be set up throughout the reserve.
Halloween Candlelit Walk — Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Saturday, Oct. 24, 6–10 p.m. Event Fee: Free. Park Day-Use Fee: See event details for information on fees. Join us if you dare, for the Annual Haunted Halloween Candlelit Walk at Humboldt Redwoods State Park! Stroll along a 0.6-mile loop trail through an old -redwood forest lit by 1,100 luminaries. Enjoy a movie, hot chocolate and treats at the Humboldt Redwoods State Park visitor center — decorated with a spooky twist. Park at Dyerville Overlook, exit 663 off Highway 101, and take the free shuttle to start your haunted adventure, as parking is extremely limited. This is a FREE, one-of-a-kind Halloween adventure in the ancient redwoods — costumes encouraged! We hope to see you there.
The Weekly Digest includes a collection of news articles related to the California Department of Parks and Recreation. The views expressed and opinions do not always reflect that of the department.
