Public Access Program
Public Access Program supports nonprofits, public agencies, and tribes with planning and construction projects that expand wildlife-oriented recreation and equitable access to nature in California.
Funder: Wildlife Conservation Board
Due Dates: Rolling (Pre-applications)
Funding Amounts: No limit on requested funding; cost share not required
Summary: Supports planning and implementation projects that expand wildlife-oriented recreation and equitable access to nature in California.
Key Information: Implementation projects need approximately 65%-complete designs or higher and completed environmental review before funding approval.
Description
The Wildlife Conservation Board’s Public Access Program funds planning and implementation projects that expand wildlife-oriented recreation opportunities in California. Established in 1947, the program initially worked with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife to protect and develop public access areas and hunting and fishing opportunities. Eligible activities now include multilingual interpretive signs, trails, ADA-accessible parking and restrooms, community outreach, and interpretive programs.
The program prioritizes non-consumptive wildlife recreation, facilities that improve hunting and fishing access, and equitable access to parks and nature. Through the California Natural Resources Agency’s Outdoors for All Initiative, it emphasizes access for underserved communities and meaningful collaboration with California Native American tribes. Its broader goal is to help individuals, families, and communities connect with natural lands and become stewards of them.
