MONTGOMERY — Governor Kay Ivey is encouraging Alabama veterans, active-duty military members and their families to take advantage of outdoor recreation opportunities available across the state this summer, including free access to participating Alabama State Parks and discounted lodging through the Parks for Patriots Program.
As Memorial Day weekend approaches and summer travel season begins, Governor Ivey highlighted Alabama’s continued efforts to support military personnel and veterans through outdoor recreation initiatives offered by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR).
“Throughout my time in office, supporting our veterans and active military members has been a priority,” Ivey said. “Their selflessness has made our freedom possible. I encourage our veterans and active-duty military members to enjoy Alabama’s beautiful outdoors and know we are forever grateful for their service and sacrifice.”
The Parks for Patriots Program, established during Governor Ivey’s administration in 2017, provides free admission to Alabama State Park day-use areas that charge entrance fees for veterans and active-duty military members. The program also includes a 15 percent lodging discount for military personnel and veterans staying at lodges, cabins and campgrounds within the Alabama State Parks system.
ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship said Alabama’s parks and public lands serve as places of reflection while also honoring those who have served in the armed forces.
“Our State Parks and public lands are places for reflection and serenity, and they stand as a tribute to those who have served our great nation,” Blankenship said. “Providing our current and former military members with free admission to Alabama’s beautiful State Parks is just one of the ways we can thank them for their selfless service to the country.”
The state’s park system also reflects the history of military service in America. Many structures still used throughout Alabama State Parks were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, including cabins, bridges and pavilions constructed by workers that included World War I veterans.
In addition to state park benefits, ADCNR offers other outdoor recreation opportunities for military members and veterans. Alabama provides discounted hunting and fishing licenses for disabled veterans, special waterfowl hunting days for veterans and active-duty military personnel, and waives standard hunting and fishing license requirements for active-duty Alabama residents home on leave. Nonresident active-duty military members stationed in Alabama are also eligible to purchase hunting and fishing licenses at resident rates.
Alabamians may also contribute to the Parks for Patriots Program through donations that help fund free park admissions for veterans and active-duty military personnel from all branches of the U.S. military.
More information about the Parks for Patriots Program is available through Alabama State Parks, while additional details on outdoor recreation benefits for military members and veterans can be found through Outdoor Alabama.
