The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is waiving vehicle fees to all 73 state parks and recreation areas on Friday, Nov. 28. 

The DNR offers four “Free Park Days” each year to encourage Minnesotans to explore a new park or visit an old favorite, and reap the benefits of spending time outdoors.

“After Thanksgiving celebrations, we encourage friends and family to get outside and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature,” said Ann Pierce, director of the DNR Parks and Trails Division. “State parks and recreation areas offer opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors together, and spending time in nature also positively affects our mental and physical wellbeing.”

Late November offers a variety of outdoor recreation options, including hiking, biking, photography, fishing and more. This time of year is particularly great for bird- and animal-watching as bare trees make it easier to spot wildlife.

State park visitors can also enjoy several free events on Nov. 28 (mndnr.gov/ptcalendar) including a naturalist-led hike at Wild River State Park, a Free Park Day scavenger hunt at Gooseberry Falls State Park, and a chance to learn about reptiles up close at Lake Maria State Park.

For more information, visit the free park day webpage (mndnr.gov/freeparkdays).

Minnesotans can also save the date for 2026’s Free Park Days:

Monday, Jan. 19

Saturday, April 25

Saturday, June 13

Friday, Nov. 27.