On February 7, 1979, articles of incorporation were filed to the Point Lobos Natural History Association, which is now known as the Point Lobos Foundation.

The history of the organization dates back to 1978 as a result of shortfalls from state funding. The Department of Parks and Recreation encouraged the creation of Nonprofit Cooperating Associations that could accept money to fund important needs at individual parks. The PLNHA was made up of mostly park Rangers and their spouses with a few non-rangers and formed to support Point Lobos. Money was raised through book sales to develop interpretive materials, trail guides, expand educational literature, and to eventually form the exemplary Point Lobos docent program.

As the needs of the Reserve grew, the organization grew to meet them. Today we are a membership organization known as the Point Lobos Foundation. Our mission is to protect and nurture Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, to educate and inspire visitors to preserve its unique natural and cultural resources, and to strengthen the network of Carmel Area State Parks.

The Point Lobos Foundation funds the Point Lobos docent program, fills shortfalls in funding for trail maintenance and repair, funds the restoration of wildlife habitat, maintains the facilities at the Reserve, and funds school outreach, providing opportunities for underserved children to experience the outdoors.

Many thanks to current and past supporters of the Point Lobos Foundation and to the original board of directors: Patricia Hughes, Steve Barnett, Judy Moore, Fran Ciccla, James and Janice Fife, Clyde Ray, Larry Moore, Bob Culbertson, Paul G. Larson, and Ferdinand Ruth.

Learn more about supporting Point Lobos State Natural Reserve at www.pointlobos.org