CARPD — California Association of Recreation and Park Districts Skip to main content
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The voice of California's recreation & park districts.

CARPD represents special districts across the state — championing the parks, programs, and people who make community life essential, equitable, and enduring.

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About CARPD

Stronger parks. Stronger communities.

The California Association of Recreation and Park Districts is a 501(c)(6) non-profit representing special recreation and park districts throughout the state. For over fifty years, we've worked to improve the quality and efficiency of the districts that serve California's communities.

Through advocacy, education, and member services — including reduced rates on workers' compensation and liability coverage via CAPRI — we help districts deliver essential, life-enhancing experiences to the people they serve.

01

Educate

Annual conferences, trainings, and professional development for districts and their leadership.

02

Advocate

Active legislative engagement at the state Capitol on issues that affect every district.

03

Support

Member services, partnerships, and resources that help districts run efficiently.

55+
Years of service to California districts
100+
Member districts across the state
$1M+
Saved annually through CAPRI coverage
1
Unified voice at the state Capitol
"Essential life-enhancing services for local communities."
What we do

Programs & services that move districts forward.

From legislative advocacy to insurance savings, CARPD delivers the tools, training, and community districts need to thrive.

Legislative Advocacy

Active engagement at the State Capitol — monitoring, sponsoring, and supporting legislation that protects and strengthens districts.

Learn more

Annual Conference

Four days of education, networking, and recognition — bringing together district staff, board members, and partners statewide.

Learn more

CAPRI Insurance

Through our joint powers authority, members access reduced rates on workers' compensation and liability/property damage coverage.

Learn more

Training & Awards

Year-round trainings and our Awards of Distinction recognizing exceptional programs, facilities, and community service.

Learn more
Become a member

Join the network shaping the future of public recreation.

Add your district's voice to a statewide coalition that's been protecting park funding, sharing best practices, and building stronger communities for over five decades.

Start your membership Talk to our team

What members receive

  • Reduced rates on workers' comp & liability coverage through CAPRI
  • Discounted access to the annual CARPD Conference and trainings
  • Quarterly CARPD Communicator newsletter & legislative updates
  • Statewide advocacy representation at the Capitol
  • Awards recognition & professional development opportunities
Upcoming Events

Where California's park leaders gather.

From our flagship conference to the inaugural golf tournament — connect, learn, and celebrate the work of California's recreation and park districts.

Featured · 2026 Monterey coast with rocks and ocean — site of the 2026 CARPD Conference
May
27–30
2026 CARPD Conference "Standing Strong"

Monterey, California

Four days of professional education, board engagement, networking, and recognition — at the gorgeous Monterey coast. Registration is now open for attendees and sponsors.

Monterey, CA
Register to attend Sponsor the event
May 27 · 2026

Inaugural CARPD Golf Tournament

Tee off at the legendary Del Monte Golf Course in Monterey — our first-ever tournament in conjunction with the annual conference.

Register
Ongoing

CARPD Trainings

Year-round professional development sessions designed for district staff, board members, and partners across the state.

View trainings
Annual

Capitol Visit & Awards

Take part in our annual Capitol Visit and Awards of Distinction — recognizing outstanding programs, facilities, and service.

View highlights
News & Communicator

The latest from CARPD.

Legislative updates, conference news, and stories from member districts — straight from the field and the Capitol.

View all news
Advocacy Win·Oct 2025

SB 499 Signed Into Law

A huge win for CARPD and California's communities — strengthening the use of parkland and recreational facilities for emergency and disaster response.

Read the full story
Newsletter·April 2026

CARPD Communicator — Spring Edition

Our quarterly publication delivers legislative updates, member spotlights, training news, and statewide stories to your inbox.

Read this issue
Career·Ongoing

Open Positions Across California

Browse current employment opportunities in recreation and parks — and post your district's open roles to reach qualified candidates statewide.

View opportunities
Our Impact

Together, we serve millions of Californians.

CARPD gives districts like ours a seat at the table — and a voice that carries from local parks to the State Capitol.
Maria Reyes District Manager · CARPD Member Agency
100+
Member districts statewide
10M+
Californians served by member districts
55+
Years of statewide advocacy
4days
Annual conference of learning & recognition

Ready to add your district's voice?

Whether you're considering membership, attending the 2026 Conference, or looking to engage with our legislative work — we'd love to hear from you.

Join CARPD Contact our team