As Memorial Day weekend ends and Alabama families prepare for summer travel and outdoor activities, Governor Kay Ivey is encouraging veterans and active-duty military members to take advantage of programs designed to honor their service through Alabama’s State Parks system.
Ivey highlighted Alabama’s Parks for Patriots program, which provides free admission to participating Alabama State Parks day-use areas for veterans and active-duty military personnel. The program also offers a 15% discount on lodging, cabins and campgrounds throughout the state park system.
“Throughout my time in office, supporting our veterans and active military members has been a priority,” said Governor Ivey. “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.”
According to the governor’s office, the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has offered free admission to veterans and active-duty service members at participating State Parks since the start of Ivey’s tenure in 2017 through the Parks for Patriots initiative.
ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship said Alabama’s parks provide both recreation and reflection for military families and veterans.
“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,” said ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship. “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.”
Alabama’s State Parks system also reflects a long connection to America’s veterans. Many cabins, pavilions and bridges still in use today were built during the Great Depression by the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose workforce included many World War I veterans.
In addition to the Parks for Patriots program, Alabama offers special outdoor recreation opportunities for veterans and military personnel, including discounted hunting and fishing licenses for disabled veterans and two special waterfowl hunting days each year for veterans and active-duty service members.
Active-duty Alabama residents who are home on leave are also exempt from regular hunting and fishing license requirements, while nonresident service members stationed in Alabama may purchase licenses at resident rates.
