California State Parks

SwimmingLife jackets:Wear alife jacketfor any aquatic activity such as boating or swimming.Life jackets can be borrowed for free at one of over 100 locallife jacket loaner stationsthroughout the state.Observe rules and only swim in designated areas.Swim only inlifeguard-protected beachesand obey all instructions and orders from lifeguards.Not all beaches along the California coastline are recommended for swimming or wading. The very things that make these areas such spectacular places to look at and enjoy can be lethal to those caught unaware along the shoreline. Observe all warning signs posted at state park units.Teach children that swimming in open water is not the same as swimming in a pool: They need to be aware of uneven surfaces, river currents, ocean undertow and changing weather.Do not enter the water if it is too cold:Some of California’s rivers run at temperatures between 30 and 40 degrees, which can literally take your breath away.Also, jumping into cold water can cause lif...