The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources is waiving vehicle permit fees at all 73 state parks and recreation areas on Monday, Jan. 20. This Free Park Day is one of four days each year on which the DNR waives the requirement for a vehicle permit at state parks and recreation areas. There is one fee-free day for each season of the year, giving Minnesotans an opportunity to experience state parks and recreation areas at different times of the year.

The 2025 free park days are scheduled as follows:

• Monday, Jan. 20

• Saturday, April 26

• Saturday, June 14

• Friday, Nov. 28

“While Minnesota state parks and recreation areas are open 365 days per year, most visits occur in the summer,” said Ann Pierce, director of DNR’s Parks and Trails Division. “Minnesota state parks truly shine year-round, and winter is a special time to embrace the state’s natural beauty and recreational opportunities; so we’re hoping people will come out and join us on Jan. 20.”

In winter, visitors can partake in popular activities like sledding, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, if snow conditions are suitable. There are also many winter outdoor activities that don’t require snow, such as birding, wildlife watching, winter hiking, nature photography, and having a campfire with hot chocolate and s’mores. If ice conditions are suitable, ice fishing is also a popular activity in state parks and recreation areas.

Many parks offer snowshoe rentals, and select parks offer ski rentals. Visitors looking for rental equipment or certain recreational opportunities can use the DNR’s ParkFinder tool to find the best destination for their visit.

The entrance fee waiver for fee-free days does not cover amenity or user fees for activities like camping or equipment rentals.

For more information, visit the DNR’s Free Park Days webpage.