Winter Recreation

Update (January 23, 2023): SNO-Parks are now open. Season runs November 1 – May 30. Before heading out to a SNO-Park, make sure to purchase a permit online.  
 ** SNO-Parks are slowly becoming accessible as roads are able to be kept open. Some may have bathrooms that are  still inaccesible.  Please check with the local forest for current conditions before traveling to visit your favorite SNO-Park.  

Recreate Responsibly
Protect yourself, family, friends and your community by following these prevention measures: 

  • Know Before You Go – Prior to leaving home, check the status of the park unit you want to visit to find out what restrictions and guidelines are in place. Have a back-up plan in case your destination is crowded. Stay home if you are sick.
  • Plan Ahead - Some restrooms will be temporarily closed to keep up with cleaning schedules. Bring soap/hand sanitizer. Popular SNO-PARKS fill up quickly. Have alternative parks to visit. Research winter road conditions and make sure your vehicle is snow ready.
  • Play It Safe – Find out what precautions you should take when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time visiting the State Park System. Learn more at parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips.
  • Be COVID-19 Safe – State Parks continues to meet guidance from local and state public officials as COVID-19 is still present and still deadly. Wear a mask when required. Read the latest face covering guidance.
  • Leave No Trace – Leave areas better than how you found them by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash. Do not disturb wildlife or plants.

SNO-PARK Banner

The fun doesn’t stop in winter. California offers spectacular winter recreation opportunities throughout the state, so are you ready to explore our winter wonderlands. We appreciate our locals and visitors and hope the information provided here helps you have a safe and enjoyable recreational experience.

The Off-Highway Motor Vehicle Recreation (OHMVR) Division of California State Parks collaborates with the U.S. Forest Service, other state agencies, and local government to facilitate the Winter Recreation Program. The program includes two components: the Over Snow Vehicle (OSV) program and California SNO-Parks. Visit the pages below to learn more about each program.

The 2022/23 SNO-Park Permit Season has begun. Please check with your preferred vendor to make sure they have them in stock! 

Please note: Fees have increased. Fee now $15 per day/$40 per season