News Release

Redwood National and State Parks Welcome New Superintendent

News Release Date: July 15, 2026 CRESCENT CITY, Calif. — The National Park Service has selected Jacob “Jake” Ohlson as the next superintendent of Redwood National and State Parks. He will assume the role in mid-August 2026.

Ohlson most recently served as superintendent of Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and Rainbow Bridge National Monument in Arizona and Utah. He brings more than 20 years of National Park Service experience leading complex park operations, building strong partnerships, and stewarding some of the nation's most significant public lands.

"Redwood National and State Parks are defined not only by their extraordinary natural resources, but by the partnerships that sustain them," Ohlson said. "I look forward to working with Tribal governments, gateway communities, state and local partners, nonprofit organizations, park employees, and volunteers to protect these remarkable landscapes while ensuring they continue to inspire visitors for generations to come."  

Ohlson also served as vice mayor of Gustavus, Alaska, and worked as a firefighter, incident commander, and emergency trauma technician. He and his wife, Bre, who were both raised in the coastal rainforests of Southeast Alaska, are excited to become part of California's North Coast community.  
 
nps.gov/redw 

Redwood National and State Parks share in the perpetual stewardship of ancient  coast redwood forests, waterways, and coastline on the homeland of Yurok, Chilula,  and Tolowa peoples; for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of everyone;  with a commitment to restoration of damaged landscapes. Learn more at nps.gov/redw