Check out a California State Library Parks Pass and Hiking Backpack with your El Dorado County Library card!
Check the availability of a backpack!
Here's how it works:
- Plan your adventure. Included with the backpack is a vehicle day use pass valid at 200+ participating state park units.
List of Participating State Park Units (by county)
List of Nonparticipating Parks (list found below map)
- Park for free. Pass entitles bearer to free vehicle day use for one passenger vehicle and its occupants at participating state park units. Show pass to a uniformed state park employee, scan barcode on front of pass at reader or display from your vehicle's rearview mirror.
- Recreate Responsibly. Find out what precautions to take when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time. Learn more at parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips.
- Return backpacks to any El Dorado County Library Circulation desk. Make sure to return the hiking backpack kit to Library staff by the due date so other patrons can use these free backpacks to explore the outdoors.
*Terms and Conditions: By using the parking pass, you agree to abide by the full terms and conditions and any other rules and regulations. Complete details at CheckOutCAStateParks.com. The parking pass does not guarantee parking space. Remove your valuables and lock your parked car. Security of parking pass and vehicle is your responsibility.
*Returns: Must be returned directly to library staff at the service desk.
*The CA State Parks Pass program will be available through December 31, 2025
FAQs
What is included in the Hiking Backpack?
Each pack contains:
1 CA State Parks parking pass
1 hiking backpack
1 pair of binoculars (in case
1 set trekking poles,
1 carabiner compass
1 pocket microscope
1 flashlight
1 waterproof splash pouch
2 pocket guides (California Trees & Wildflowers, and California Wildlife)
2 books (Top Trails: Lake Tahoe, and Day Hiker: Gold Country Trail Guide)
How long can I keep the Hiking Backpack? Can it be renewed?
The Hiking Backpacks check out for three weeks and can be renewed. Please note they will not renew if there is a pending hold.
If the backpack is not returned to the library by the due date the Parks Pass will be decommissioned by the State Parks making it no longer valid.
Can I place a hold on the Hiking Backpack from the online catalog?
Yes, the Hiking Backpack can be placed on hold. Check the availability of a Hiking Backpack and/or place a hold here or you can call your local library for assistance. Please note we cannot guarantee the hold will be available when you need it for a planned trip.
Can the Hiking Backpacks be returned in the book drop?
Please return the entire Hiking Backpack to the library service desk. Do not put them into the library's drop boxes.
Are there overdue fees if the Hiking Backpack is late?
No, we no longer charge for overdue items, however items need to be returned in a timely manner, or accounts will be blocked.
Fees for damaged or lost items and some exceptions still apply.
What happens if I lose the Park Pass or if the pass is stolen?
Please contact your local El Dorado County Library and let us know your pass was lost or stolen.
Is the pass valid at all 279 state parks?
No, but the Library Parks Pass is valid at over 200 participating state parks. See the California State Library's map of participating state parks.
It is not valid at units operated by federal and local government, private agencies or concessionaires, state vehicular recreation areas, parks not open to the public, for per-person entry or tour fees (such as museums), or at parks that do not require a day-use pass. See a list of ineligible parks and full terms and conditions.
Can the pass be used for national parks or city parks?
No, the pass is only valid within the 200+ participating state park units.