If you've been looking for an excuse to get outside and explore Oregon, next weekend might be the perfect opportunity.
On Saturday, June 6, Oregon State Parks will once again waive day-use parking fees at parks across the state as part of the annual State Parks Day celebration.
For many Oregonians, it's become a beloved tradition. Since 1998, Oregon State Parks has kicked off the busy summer season by offering free parking and inviting visitors to reconnect with some of the most beautiful places in the state.
Whether your idea of a perfect day is hiking through old-growth forests, walking along the coast, enjoying a peaceful lake, or simply packing a picnic and spending time outdoors with family, June 6 offers a chance to do it without reaching for your wallet at the parking kiosk.
"State Parks Day is a commemoration of the places that connect us to Oregon's natural beauty and to one another," said Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Interim Director Stefanie Coons. "We appreciate everyone who helps keep these spaces vibrant and welcoming."
Behind the scenes, park crews have spent months preparing for the busy summer season. Staff have been clearing storm debris, removing fallen trees, repairing infrastructure, and making improvements to water, sewer, and electrical systems to ensure parks are ready for visitors.
The free parking is reason enough to celebrate, but several parks around Oregon are also hosting special events throughout the day.
At The Cove Palisades State Park near Culver, visitors can enjoy the annual Festival of the Land, featuring wildlife demonstrations, farm games, educational exhibits, local vendors, native flute music, and hands-on activities designed to celebrate the area's natural and cultural heritage.
At L.L. Stub Stewart State Park west of Portland, visitors can stick around after sunset for a special summer star party hosted by OMSI, Rose City Astronomers, and Oregon State Parks. Telescopes, astronomy presentations, and ranger-led nighttime hikes will help guests explore Oregon's night skies.
Plant lovers may want to head to Shore Acres State Park on the southern Oregon Coast, where gardening experts, Master Gardeners, and native plant specialists will be available to answer questions and share gardening tips. Visitors can also enjoy live performances and refreshments throughout the day.
Meanwhile, Central Oregon visitors can join a ranger-led hike at LaPine State Park to visit the famous "Big Tree," recognized as the largest ponderosa pine in the world. The 1.5-mile walk offers an up-close look at the forests and wildlife that make the area so special.
Families with younger children may enjoy Prineville Reservoir State Park, where kids can build their own birdhouses while learning about Oregon's native birds. All materials are provided free of charge.
Oregon's state park system includes 254 parks and more than 100,000 acres of public land, ranging from rugged ocean viewpoints and waterfalls to desert landscapes, forests, historic sites, and scenic lakes.
For one day each year, Oregon residents get a small reminder of why these places are worth protecting.
And best of all, the parking is free.
Planning to take advantage of State Parks Day on June 6? Tell us which Oregon state park you're heading to.
