- Rachel Granadino
- District Director
- (619) 280-7801
- rachel.granadino@asm.ca.gov
Sacramento, CA — Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego) announced that Assembly Bill 518 – the Low-Impact Camping Areas Act – was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom. AB 518 will increase affordable camping options, reduce pressure on crowded campgrounds, and strengthen California’s outdoor recreation economy. A broad coalition of conservation leaders, outdoor equity advocates, farmers, rural communities, and outdoor industry partners celebrate Governor Gavin Newsom’s signing of the legislation that will make it easier to create new, affordable camping opportunities across California.
AB 518 addresses one of the biggest challenges for California families: the lack of accessible and affordable places to camp. With traditional campgrounds often booked months in advance, the bill opens the door for counties to work with private landowners to establish simple, safe overnight camping options that better reflect local needs.
“AB 518 will ensure that more Californians — regardless of income, background, or zip code — can experience the joy of camping and the beauty of our state’s public lands,” said Assemblymember Chris Ward (D-San Diego). “I am grateful to Governor Newsom for his leadership and stewardship of our public lands and to the diverse coalition of supporters who made this victory possible.”
“This is a historic step toward increased equity and access to California’s outdoors,” added Jazzari T. Taylor, Policy Advocate at Latino Outdoors. “AB 518 will help break down barriers to camping and open the door for more Californians to build lasting connections with nature.”
“Farmers and ranchers have always been the best stewards of the land, and AB 518 gives them a new opportunity to share that land with Californians and visitors alike who want to experience the outdoors,” said Steven Fenaroli, Policy Advocacy Director for the California Farm Bureau. “This law will strengthen rural economies, support working lands, and create new ways for communities to connect with agriculture.”
“AB 518 reflects the values of California’s outdoor recreation community: sustainability, access, conservation, and economic innovation,” said Lexie Gritlefeld, Executive Director of California Outdoor Recreation Partnership. “By signing this bill, Governor Newsom has helped ensure that outdoor recreation continues to grow as a driver of both economic vitality and public health in alignment with the Outdoors for All Initiative.”
“This is a huge win for Californians and all those who love to camp. For too long, families have struggled to find a place to pitch a tent,” shared Alyssa Ravasio, CEO and Founder of Hipcamp. “Thanks to Governor Newsom’s leadership and the coalition that made AB 518 possible, more people will be able to experience the joy, health benefits, and community that come with spending a night under the stars.”
AB 518 furthers the state’s commitment to California’s Outdoors for All strategy and expands equitable access to nature while supporting sustainable recreation and rural economies.