About the Calaveras Big Trees Association
Calaveras Big Trees Association (CBTA) can trace its roots to the original Calaveras Grove Association, organized in 1926 by a group of individuals intent on preserving the historic groves for future generations. Through their efforts, Calaveras Big Trees State Park was born on July 5, 1931.
CBTA was founded in 1974 as a private, non-profit, charitable 501(c)(3) corporation to create, fund, and deliver inspirational educational and interpretive programs, and to inspire visitors to help preserve and protect the Giant Sequoias and all of the Park's natural resources. These programs enable visitors to understand, appreciate, conserve, enjoy, and explore Calaveras Big Trees State Park. CBTA uses membership fees, donations, and fundraising to accomplish this mission. Membership is open to all. The board members are all volunteers.
Our Mission
As the non-profit partner of Calaveras Big Trees State Park, our mission is to create, fund, and deliver inspirational educational and interpretive programs, as well as inspire visitors to help preserve and protect the Giant Sequoias and all the Park's natural resources.
Our Vision
We envision vibrant and healthy Giant Sequoias in a premier state park, with access for all, inspiring body, mind, and spirit, and generating the motivation to protect and preserve its natural, cultural, and recreational resources.
What We've Accomplished
Since its creation in 1974, CBTA has taken on many projects, including construction of the present Visitor Center and building a permanent footbridge at Beaver Creek, as well as sponsoring a wide range of interpretive programs that bring the park to life for visitors of all ages.
A major ongoing project is the Thematic Unit Project: through class visits, teaching materials left at schools, and field trips to Big Trees, CBTA is providing extended learning about the Park to 2nd-5th grade students throughout Calaveras County.
The Visitor Center, completed and open since November 2013, is operated by CBTA and staffed by State Park Docents. All profits from items sold at the Visitor Center are reinvested directly into Calaveras Big Trees State Park, funding long-term capital projects and ongoing interpretive programs.
California State Parks maintains a valuable relationship with more than 80 cooperating associations authorized under Public Resources Code 513. These non-profit organizations are dedicated to enhancing educational and interpretive programs across California State Parks. CBTA is related to, but independent of, the state park it serves.
You Make Our Work Possible
CBTA is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit. All donations are tax-deductible. Tax ID # 23-7405964.