The Pacific Northwest Region of the U.S. Forest Service will waive most day-use fee sites on national forests in the region on Veterans Day, Nov. 11.
This fee-free day is in recognition of our nation's veterans and is the last fee-free day for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Service in 2023.
The fee waiver applies to recreation fees charged for amenities such as picnic tables, developed trailheads and visitor centers. Fees for camping, cabin rentals or other permits still apply, and fees will continue to be charged at day-use fee sites operated by concessionaires, unless individual managers choose to participate.
"We are proud to honor our nation's veterans by offering a fee-free day on Veterans Day," said Tracy Calizon, assistant director of recreation for the Pacific Northwest Region of the Forest Service. "We hope that everyone takes advantage of this opportunity to enjoy the beauty of our national forests in the Pacific Northwest, and the recreational options they have to offer."
The Forest Service offers several fee-free days throughout the year to encourage Americans to explore the outdoors and visit their public lands. The 2023 fee-free days included Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, President's Day, National Get Outdoors Day, Juneteenth, National Public Lands Day and Veterans Day.
The Forest Service offers places for hiking, biking, skiing, nature viewing, scenic drives, and for gathering forest products such as mushrooms, firewood and Christmas trees. Many of the facilities and services associated with these opportunities are free. However, some do require fees or permits to help maintain, manage and improve these national landscapes.
For more information on fee-free days and recreation passes, visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/visit/passes-permits.
The Pacific Northwest Region of the Forest Service manages millions of acres of land across Washington and Oregon including over 2,400 developed recreation sites, more than 24,000 miles of trails, 51 wild and scenic rivers, and two national monuments. Visitors are encouraged to check their local forest or public land websites for specific information on recreation opportunities, trails, safety guidelines and any additional regulations.
Visitors are urged to adhere to “leave no trace” principles during their outdoor adventures.
“By respecting the environment and minimizing our impact, we can collectively preserve the natural beauty of these remarkable landscapes for future generations,” the Forest Service stated in a news release.
