Free entrance days to all Minnesota state parks

Free Park Days: Free entrance to all Minnesota state parks and recreation areas four days a year.

Next free park day: Friday, November 29, 2024

On four days each year, all Minnesota state parks and state recreation areas offer free admission to everyone - no vehicle permits needed!

Here are the fee-free dates in 2024:

 

  • Monday, January 15, 2024
  • Saturday, April 27, 2024
  • Saturday, June 8, 2024
  • Friday, November 29, 2024

Minnesota state parks are open year-round, and there's a state park within 30 miles of most Minnesotans. With a free day in each season, it's a great opportunity to get out there and explore someplace new - or visit an old favorite at a new time of year! Whether you stay for the whole weekend or just spend a few hours outside, you'll make memories that will last a lifetime.

The entrance fee waiver for fee-free days does not cover amenity or user fees for activities like camping, rentals, or special tours.

The goal is to encourage families to spend time together with a walk outdoors. Research shows that walking offers multiple benefits, from increased creativity and better brain function to more flexibility and stamina. So you won't just burn calories, you'll also improve your well-being.

What if I want to stay overnight?

You do not need a to buy a state park vehicle permit when you stay overnight on a free park day. The permit exemption is good until camping or lodging check-out time.

I need help deciding where to go!

I need ideas for what to do!

I had a great experience on Free Park Day and I'm ready for more.

Terrific! Buy an annual or daily vehicle permit to keep on exploring all of Minnesota state parks and recreation areas.

And did you know, Minnesota's state trails and state water trails are free every day?

Coming to the park? Know the "Key 3:"

  1. Plan to be flexible, and consider exploring new destinations. Parks are busy on these free days, so we encourage you to discover a new favorite!
  2. Arrive prepared. Check visitor alerts and download maps before your trip.
  3. Recreate responsibly. Help conserve these special places for the future by staying on trails and leaving no trace.

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