Photo Contest: Spring Into Sonoma County Parks

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — Got photos of your local parks? There is still time to participate in Sonoma County Parks Foundation's "Spring into Parks" photo contest, a special seasonal event celebrating the county’s regional parks.

The nonprofit invites residents and visitors of all skill levels to capture the beauty of the 60 Sonoma County Regional Parks while also supporting the parks.

The submission period runs through 5 p.m. Monday, March 31. The contest is open to all Sonoma County residents and visitors, regardless of experience level.

Contest Categories

• Park Views and Vistas: Submit scenic landscapes, sunsets, coastlines, wildflowers and other views. (Visit SonomaCountyParks.org for a list of regional parks.) No photos showing people’s faces or off-leash dogs accepted.
• Park Wildlife: Share your best shots of birds and other wildlife. Please follow ethical photography practices. (See guidelines from the National Audubon Society)
• Submission Restrictions: AI-generated, altered or drone-assisted photos are not eligible.

How to Win

• People’s Choice Winners: People’s Choice Winners are selected based on the popular vote at gogophotocontest.com/SonomaCountyParksFoundation. Participants are welcome to promote their entries via social media and encourage friends and family members to support their entry. $1 per vote, no minimum required.
• Judges’ Choice Winners: A panel of photography experts will select winners in this category based on artistic and technical merit.

Prizes

• Top three winners in each category will be featured in the 2026 Spring into Parks Calendar. This calendar is produced in conjunction with the Spring into Parks photography contest and will be available for purchase online during and following the contest.
• The first 100 entries will receive one 8-by-10-inch print or 10 4-by-6-inch prints free from sponsor Shutterbug Camera Shops.
• Additional exciting prizes include gift certificates to Stark’s restaurants, gift packages at local wineries and much more.

More info: gogophotocontest.com/SonomaCountyParksFoundation

Reserve a Special Day in the 2026 Calendar

The Spring into Parks Photography Contest concludes with a 2026 calendar that features winning photos from the contest, which can be ordered through the contest website. Want a guaranteed spot in the 2026 Spring into Parks Calendar? Individuals can reserve a date for a special photo to commemorate a birthday, anniversary, memorial, or any meaningful occasion. First come, first served—once a date is booked, it’s gone. (Scenery and wildlife photos only; no faces.)

Support Sonoma County Parks

The contest aims to raise $10,000 for Sonoma County Regional Parks and park programs, including youth initiatives, trail renovations and climate action projects. Whether you enter a photo or cast a vote, your participation directly supports the parks and their future.