In partnership with San Mateo County Parks, the Foundation raises funds to support projects, programs, and volunteers to benefit parks and visitors.

We are committed to conserving and improving the quality of our County Parks for current and future generations to enjoy. Since its founding in 1998, the Foundation and its members have provided millions of dollars in support for our parks.

Join us today!

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Learn more about our County parks at SMCoParks.org

General Information

The San Mateo County Parks Foundation was established in 1998 to provide additional financial support for the recreational, environmental and educational programs and projects of the San Mateo County Department of Parks. The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and has a small staff. The Foundation seeks grants and contributions from individuals, foundations and businesses. Recognition of gifts is done in accordance with the County's approved Donor Recognition Guidelines. The Foundation does not manage the projects directly. The San Mateo County Department of Parks is responsible for the design, permitting, contracting and maintenance of the projects.

Mission Statement

The San Mateo County Parks Foundation inspires people to care for, learn about and enjoy our parks.

Fund-Raising Priorities and Current Goals

In partnership with the San Mateo County Department of Parks, the Foundation raises funds to support projects, programs and volunteers for benefit parks and visitors.

We are committed to conserving and improving the quality of our County Parks for current and future generations to enjoy.

Ongoing Projects

To learn more about some of our projects, visit our Projects page.

The San Mateo County Parks and Recreation Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Our identification number is 94-3306697

County Parks in the News

Edgewood Park serves as the centerpiece of this NY Times article on the hard times for our parks. You can and are making a difference by volunteering. Consider this quote: Volunteers now cover many of the jobs once performed by park rangers and contribute about 20 percent of the work force hours in the park.

Green Building Award

The Bill and Jean Lane Education Center at Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve has received Sustainable San Mateo County's Green Building Award. The Center will be recognized at the 13th annual Sustainability Awards event, Thursday, March 15. More

Events

Sat. Feb. 11 • San Pedro Kids Day

The Insect Discovery Lab will be at the visitor center to help kids explore the fantastic lives of beetles, millipedes, tarantulas, walking sticks, whip scorpions and more! More Info

Sun. August 5 • Tour de Peninsula

Join us for our wildly popular annual bike ride in 2012 - with routes for cyclists of all ages and abilities.

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