Oregon State Parks Day, free fishing set for this weekend
Outdoor recreators in Oregon will have their pick of free activities this weekend.
In celebration of State Parks Day on Saturday, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department announced the agency will waive day use parking fees, while also providing free camping at RV, horse and tent campsites for a limited time.
This year, the event coincides with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife's free fishing weekend on Saturday and Sunday. On free fishing weekends, no licenses, tags or endorsements are required to fish, clam or crab anywhere in Oregon. For a list of events, go to: bit.ly/3oG5fdx
What is State Parks Day?
State Parks Day, which is celebrating 25 years this year, is meant to thank Oregonians for their support of the parks system. Visitors will not be required to pay parking or day use fees at any of the 25 locations that typically charge them on Saturday and Sunday. Camping will be free in state parks for Saturday only.
“Oregon has one of the best state parks systems in the country, and it’s because you have invested in parks, cared for them, and preserved them for everyone to enjoy” OPRD Director Lisa Sumption said in a press release.
This year's State Parks Day features several free events and service projects. Here is a roundup of some of the events on Saturday.
Events on tap at Oregon state parks
At the Cove Palisades, "Festival of the Land," which is free, will celebrate the diverse history, food and culture of Central Oregon from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event includes archeology hikes, kids’ games and activities, a petting zoo, mini farmers market, fish displays, fry bread and more.
Trail Keepers of Oregon will lead trail maintenance projects at Smith Rock from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The event is free but registration is required. Participants should bring snacks, lunch, water and work gloves.
At the Valley of the Rogue, a Veteran’s Powwow will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. The event includes a powwow ceremony with gourd dancing and vender booths.
An educational film screening is set for Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park at the amphitheater located in B loop overnight campground from 1 to 3 p.m. This event is weather dependent.
At L.L. Stub Stewart, Friends of Stub Stewart State Park will have booths and tables set up from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. around the welcome center for local fire departments, state forestry agencies and volunteer organizations. Free snacks and refreshments provided along with arts and crafts and interpretive displays.
At Luckiamute Natural Area, participants can play Bird Bingo from 9 a.m. to noon. Register online. The event begins with a ranger-led stroll along the North Luckiamute Trail. Binoculars will be provided.
There will be a guided hike at Sitka Sedge State Natural Area to learn about local plants and wildlife from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Participants will meet at the Sitka Sedge State Natural Area parking lot off of Sandlake Road. Dress for the weather, bring water and a snack.
This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Oregon State Parks Day, free fishing set for this weekend
