Camarillo and Moorpark families can join free guided hikes, camping trips and snow outings through a local nonprofit program now backed by a new California law.
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed SB 1268, the Outdoors for All Initiative, on Monday, Oct. 12, creating a state framework for expanding access to parks, trails, beaches and forests. Los Padres ForestWatch, a nonprofit that protects wildlife and public access throughout Los Padres National Forest, co-sponsored the bill alongside Audubon California and GreenLatinos, as first reported by Vida Newspaper.
ForestWatch runs the Outdoor Connections program, which offers families in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties free transportation, gear and safety education so they can reach trailheads and campgrounds they might not otherwise access, according to the organization's program page. Outings include guided hikes, overnight camping and trips to snow country.
"We know from our own Outdoor Connections program that access to nature can be transformative, but too many families still face barriers to getting outside," Carla Mena, director of policy and legislative affairs for Los Padres ForestWatch, said in a statement. She added that the new law represents a long-term commitment to reducing those barriers and connecting communities with the outdoors.
State Sen. Lena Gonzalez authored SB 1268.
Under the law, the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) must maintain a Deputy Secretary for Access, update the state's Outdoors for All Strategy with public input and report annually to the Legislature on progress. Updates must align with California's 30x30 conservation goals, which aim to conserve 30% of the state's lands and waters by 2030, and ensure conservation strategies benefit disadvantaged and low-income communities.
The enrolled legislation cites federal actions involving public-land sales, oil and gas leasing and offshore drilling as part of the rationale for reinforcing California's commitment to outdoor access, according to Vida Newspaper.
No upcoming Outdoor Connections outing dates were listed as of Monday, Oct. 12. Residents can check forestwatch.org for updates on free trips in the Los Padres National Forest area.
