Samuel P. Taylor State Park

04/02/2026

Mark your calendars for public events happening this month!

Jr Ranger Easter Egg Hunt - April 5th 1pm-2pm

Jr. Rangers, join park staff on Easter for an egg hunt and learn how eggs might have helped Samuel P. Taylor out on his journey to building the West Coast’s first paper mill!
This is a Jr. Ranger program designed for kids 12 and under. Meet park staff in the Azalea Day Use Area by the restrooms.
Baskets will be provided.

Pioneer Tree Trail Guided Hike - April 25th 1pm-3:30pm

Join park staff to discuss the history of SPT as it relates to redwoods and the life they support, challenges that the forest faces today, adaptations of redwoods, human perspectives, and stewardship. This 2.1 mile guided hike takes participants along the newly rerouted Pioneer Tree Trail!

03/24/2026

Today marks 4 years since the Pioneer Tree fell due to a human caused fire.

What once was the site of a massive old growth redwood tree, where families explored their awe around redwoods, is now a powerful reminder that humans are capable of leaving a lasting impact on their environment. This site is also a vibrant reminder of resiliency, in which the Sequoia Sempervirens (a name translating to "always green", "everlasting" or "always flourishing") continue to regrow and endure in the face of devastation.

To celebrate the life of this tree, I would like to highlight the renovation of the Pioneer Tree Trail and those who have made it possible. Over the last year, we have witnessed the California State Parks Trails Crew and the California Conservation Corps dedicate themselves to the hard work that is required to protect ✨literally✨build these trails and continues to allow us access to these incredible spaces. This work includes boardwalks, bridge crossings, benches, rerouting to prevent further erosion, and educational panels.

The Pioneer Tree Trail is officially reopened! The next time you walk this trail, remember the Pioneer Tree, remember the work that went into allowing us safe access on this trail, but most of all, remember to ask yourself... what kind of impact do YOU want to leave on these trees?

https://www.instagram.com/p/DWRw_iPj3ew/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

03/21/2026

We're hiring a Senior Park Aide at Samuel P. Taylor SP!

Applications due on 4/1/2026

Duties include:
Welcoming park visitors
Computing and collecting fees
Explaining park regulations, amenities and directions
Overseeing campground operations
Leading and training new employees

Visit Calcareers.ca.gov and search job control # “511833”
or follow the link in our bio!

03/06/2026

Mark those calendars for public events at Samuel P. Taylor State Park this month!

Glow in the Park
Friday, March 27th
7pm-8:30pm
Join park staff for an evening of black light exploration! Participants should bring stable footwear, headlamps or flashlights, cameras, and warm clothing. Some UV lights will be available to loan but supplies are limited. Meet in the Azalea Day Use Area by the restrooms. Park staff will be visible from the parking lot. Participation in the event is free, an $8 vehicle entrance fee is required (exact change is preferred).

Jr Ranger Wildflower Walk
Saturday, March 28th
1pm-2:30pm
Celebrate the start of spring in the park! Jr. Rangers, join park staff for a guided walk along the South Creek Trail as we learn about flowers blooming in the park. This 1.5 mile accessible walk meets in the Azalea Day Use Area. Participants should bring stable footwear, water, and weather appropriate gear. This program is designed for ages 7-12. Participation in this event is free, an $8 parking fee is required.

02/10/2026

🚧Picnic Area Closure 🚧

👀 Where? - Portions of the Azalea day use area will be closed to the public. The Park and Campgrounds will remain open and accessible to visitors

🕐 When? - February 11th - 13th 2026

❓ Why? - Safe removal of hazardous trees is done regularly to ensure safety of visitors and staff. Trees are only removed after being confirmed by State Park Environmental Scientists to be a hazard.

⚠️ Respect Signage - If recreating near tree removal always follow the instructions provided by signage and California State Parks Staff.

For more information, email [email protected]

02/03/2026

Mark those calendars, we have events this month at Samuel P. Taylor State Park!

👀I-Spy Bingo Jr Rangers... February 22nd 1pm-2:30pm
I Spy with my little eye...a possible Bingo win in your future! Join us in the park for a short walk to play I Spy, drawing what you find on your bingo board and earning your Jr Ranger badge – find five things in a row and you’ve won! Meet park staff in the Azalea Day Use Area by the restrooms for a guided walk to the South Creek Trail and back. Participants should bring stable footwear, water, and weather appropriate gear. All coloring supplies will be provided. Participation in this event is free, an $8 vehicle entrance fee is required.

🌟Glow in the Park... February 27th 5:30pm-7pm
Join park staff for an evening of black light exploration! Participants should bring stable footwear, headlamps or flashlights, cameras, and warm clothing. Some UV lights will be available to loan but supplies are limited. Meet in the Azalea Day Use Area by the restrooms. Park staff will be visible from the parking lot. Participation in the event is free, an $8 vehicle entrance fee is required (exact change is preferred).

All events are subject to cancellation dependent on weather conditions and unforeseen closures.
California State Parks supports equal access. Prior to arrival, visitors with disabilities, who need assistance should contact the park at: (415) 488-9897

01/20/2026

Please excuse our dust!

State park maintenance and environmental science staff are working to remove some hazardous trees in the campground to keep the park safe for visitors.

You may hear loud noises and see heavy equipment in the day use and campground area on January 21st.

Please respect all cones, barriers, and instructions from park staff for your safety. Thank you for your understanding!

01/17/2026

Glow in the Park

January 30th from 5pm-6pm

Join park staff for an evening of blacklight exploration!

🔦 Participants should bring stable footwear, headlamps or flashlights, cameras, and warm clothing.

🌟 Some UV lights will be available to loan but supplies are limited.

🚽 Meet in the Azalea Day Use Area by the restrooms.

🚗 An $8 vehicle entrance fee is required (exact change is preferred). Participation in the event is free.

01/14/2026

01/02/2026

Happy New Year!!