Land and Water Conservation Fund
Land and Water Conservation Fund supports California public agencies and tribes in acquiring land and developing parks and outdoor recreation spaces to expand public access and promote health and wellness.
Funder: California Department of Parks and Recreation
Due Dates: January 14, 2027 (Local agencies) | September 10, 2026 (Anticipated state agency deadline) | June 3, 2027 (State Coastal Conservancy letter of intent)
Funding Amounts: $27.5 million available; local agency requests up to $6 million and 50% of total project cost
Summary: Supports acquisition or development of California land to create public outdoor recreation opportunities that promote health and wellness.
Key Information: Applicants must finance 100% of project costs before reimbursement and protect the entire park for public outdoor recreation in perpetuity.
Description
The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is a federal, state, and local partnership administered in California by the Department of Parks and Recreation’s Office of Grants and Local Services (OGALS), with federal approval by the National Park Service (NPS). Since 1965, LWCF assistance has created or improved more than one thousand parks across California.
The program funds land acquisition or outdoor recreation development, including new parks, park expansions, trails, athletic facilities, gardens, playgrounds, and open space. Projects must address at least one Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) priority. Local competitive priorities include new park access, multi-use parks for all ages, community-informed health design, safety and beautification, and preservation of outdoor recreation land.
