White visitors remain disproportionately overrepresented in state and national parks (70–80%), while Black and Hispanic visitors are underrepresented (roughly 4–12%).
These challenges are systemic but addressable.
Rewriting the narrative means making parks relevant, accessible, and true reflections of all communities—through storytelling, staffing, programming, and removing practical barriers.
That’s why we’re launching Gateway Park.
At Gateway Park, we believe the great outdoors should belong to everyone. Our mission is to create an inclusive, joyful space where people of color, who have long been made to feel unwelcome, can fully enjoy nature without fear, exclusion, or discomfort.
We’re working to rewrite the outdoor narrative so everyone feels they belong in the woods, on the water, and under the stars.
Nestled in the beauty of Tahoe National Forest, Gateway Park is more than a campground. It’s a community, a refuge, and a celebration of nature.
Gateway Park will revitalize a historically logged timberland into a vibrant nature destination. Spanning 600 acres of mixed conifer forest, the project will reduce wildfire risk, support pollinators, improve trails, and restore Lake Putt as a fishery.
Gateway Park is built for connection—to nature, to community, and to a sense of belonging. With cozy treehouse lodging, a private lake, scenic trails, and a vibrant nature center, every detail is designed to welcome you.
The park offers immersive, multi-day experiences that engage underrepresented communities, support land stewardship and job training, restore habitats, and create a seamless link to Tahoe National Forest.
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Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and lakeside relaxation.
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Explore miles of accessible and scenic trails that weave through the forest.
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Stay your way — in rustic yet luxurious treehouse hotels or
charming forest cabins.
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Dive into engaging exhibits about local wildlife, conservation efforts, and ecological education
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Cast your line into our private lake stocked with native fish species.
Enjoy our scenic and intimate venue designed for nature talks, performances, and fireside storytelling.
From treehouse lodging to ADA-accessible trails, our mission is to ensure that all people feel welcomed and represented in the outdoors.

We’re restoring 650 acres of damaged timberland by removing fire-prone trees, reintroducing native species, and building a more resilient, biodiverse forest.

Across 300 acres, we’re planting native, nectar-rich plants to support 37 pollinator species, including the at-risk Western bumblebee.

We’re transforming a historic reservoir into a hub for recreation and conservation, improving water quality and creating habitats for fish, frogs, and other wildlife.

Every stay at Gateway Park funds the long-term care of these lands, from forest health to dam upkeep, ensuring a future for both nature and visitors.

When you camp here, you’re not just exploring—you’re actively supporting the healing and protection of this landscape.
What began as a vision to make the outdoors more inclusive is becoming reality through Gateway Park. Learn more about how 650 acres turned into a community-driven destination for exploration, education, and belonging.

Nov 2021
The 40 Acre Conservation League is born with a bold mission: to reimagine how urban communities connect with nature by protecting and restoring California’s wild and working lands.

Aug 2022
The 40 Acre Conservation League is born with a bold mission: to reimagine how urban communities connect with nature by protecting and restoring California’s wild and working lands.

Jan 2024
The project earns CEQA environmental certification and, with support from the State of California, officially completes the landmark acquisition — laying the foundation for a transformative public park.

March 2024
Active restoration begins, focused on wildfire risk reduction and forest revitalization. Meanwhile, fundraising surpasses $2.7 million, supporting vital infrastructure for access, education, and community use.

March 2025
After raising $2.4 million for restoration in March 2024 and securing an additional $300,000 in August, we closed the remaining gap this spring by raising the final $2.3 million needed to fully fund our $5 million restoration plan.
With fuel reduction and habitat work now fully funded, Gateway Park is on track to become a flagship example of community-driven conservation.
Join our movement to reclaim and reimagine the outdoors. Sign up to get updates on Gateway Park events, community actions, nature programs, and how we’re building a more inclusive future outside.