What are the contest rules?
Review the Terms and Conditions.
Who can enter?
Any legal resident of California who has visited a California State Park.
When can I enter the contest?
Photos can be submitted from September 9 to October 9, 2025.
How many photos can I enter?
There are five different categories for entry. Each participant can submit one photo per category, up to a total of five photos.
Can I edit my submitted photos?
Minor edits, such as cropping, red-eye removal, and adjustments of contrast and brightness are permitted. Extensive manipulation, adding watermarks, or other alterations are prohibited.
Is a screenshot from my phone eligible?
No, screenshots are not acceptable as submissions. Please upload the original photo.
Can I submit drone photography?
No, drone photography is not permitted in the 2025 California State Parks Photo Contest.
Can I submit a photo used in another contest?
No, photos must be original submissions for this contest.
Are there restrictions on how I can take my photos?
Yes, photos must not be staged with professional models, props, or commercial styling. We seek authentic, naturally occurring moments. Keep in mind that park rules may prohibit certain types of photography.
What is the People's Choice Award?
This award allows website visitors to vote for their favorite semifinalist photos. Prior to the People’s Choice Awards opening, a judging panel will select the top 50 photos from each of the five categories, totaling 250 photos to vote from. Each person can cast one vote every 24 hours from November 3–17, 2025.
When will the winners be announced?
Winners will be notified in December 2025.
How will photos be used?
California State Parks and associated agencies may use the images indefinitely for marketing, communications, education, and more. See the Terms and Conditions for more information.
Do I have to take new photos now?
No, you don’t have to take a new photo now. You can submit any photo taken by you in a California State Park on or after January 1, 2025.
What are the contest categories?
See below to explore the five contest categories!
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