As spring turns to summer, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Forest Service encourages everyone to immerse themselves in the wonders of the great outdoors.
In a move designed to inspire outdoor exploration, the Forest Service has declared that day-use sites in Washington and Oregon will be open to the public free of charge on June 10, marking the celebration of National Get Outdoors Day.
Tracy Calizon, assistant director of recreation and related resources for the Pacific Northwest region of the Forest Service, expressed enthusiasm about the upcoming event. “We are delighted to waive fees for National Get Outdoors Day,” Calizon stated in a recent announcement. “This is a wonderful opportunity for individuals and families to engage in outdoor activities and discover the incredible natural beauty that our forests and public lands have to offer. We hope that by providing free access, more people will be inspired to connect with nature, create lasting memories, and foster a lifelong appreciation for our environment.”
The fee waiver is anticipated to encourage more people to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
A variety of sites are included in the fee waiver initiative, including picnic areas perfect for family outings, boat launches for water enthusiasts, trailheads for avid hikers, and visitor centers packed with informative exhibits.
However, certain operations will continue to charge their usual fees, such as concession operations, unless the permit holder opts to participate in the fee waiver. It is also important to note that charges for camping, cabin rentals, heritage expeditions, and other special permits will remain unaffected.
Despite the upcoming waiver, it’s worth noting that many of the developed recreation sites in national forests and grasslands are normally accessible at no cost. According to the Forest Service, approximately two-thirds of these sites are free to use, and an impressive 98% of national forests and grasslands do not levy fees at any time.
For those wondering where to spend National Get Outdoors Day, there are plenty of Forest Service areas to consider.
Some local favorites include the scenic Wanapum Recreation Area, the expansive Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, the tranquil Umtanum Creek Recreation Site, and the family-friendly Long Meadow Campground.
The Pacific Northwest Region of the Forest Service, renowned for managing a sprawling expanse of land across Washington and Oregon, oversees more than 2,400 developed recreation sites. These sites span over 24,000 miles of trails, 51 Wild and Scenic Rivers, and two national monuments, offering something for every type of outdoor enthusiast.
Ahead of the event, the Forest Service urges visitors to plan their adventure carefully by checking their local forest or public land websites for specific information on recreation opportunities, trails, safety guidelines, and any additional regulations.
The Forest Service also advocates for the principles of Leave No Trace, encouraging everyone to respect the environment during their outdoor escapades.
This National Get Outdoors Day, whether you’re a seasoned camper, hiker, birdwatcher, or simply a nature lover seeking a peaceful day out, Washington and Oregon’s public lands await, ready to offer an unforgettable experience.