Want a change of pace this Black Friday? Skip the hyper-consumerism and work off that holiday meal at your favorite state park. On Friday, November 25, receive free state park entrance in Oregon and Washington.
Free State Park Entrance on Black Friday
Green Friday at Oregon State Parks
All 25 Oregon State Parks that charge $5 day-use parking fees will be free to visit on November 25. The day is being celebrated as “Green Friday,” to encourage people to opt outside on Black Friday.
This freebie includes lots of great parks close to home. Stroll the beach at Rooster Rock State Park; go biking or hiking at Milo McIver State Park; or partake in disc golfing at Stub Stewart State Park.
Here’s a map of the 25 parks that are waiving day-use fees:
Free Parking Day at Portland Metro Parks
On November 25, Portland metro parks, a beach and boat ramps that typically charge a $5 parking fee per car are free. One of the participating locations is Blue Lake Regional Park, where you can get free parking and participate in free fishing weekend. Here’s a full list and activities at all Portland metro locations.
Native American Heritage Day at Washington State Parks
Washington State Parks is celebrating Native American Heritage Day on November 25 by waiving its $10 Discover Pass fee for the day. That’s right. Free entrance to all the state parks in Washington.
Just a short drive north of Portland are Paradise Point State Park and Battle Ground Lake. Both offer hiking, canoeing and kayaking, and lots of opportunities to spot wildlife and soak in all the awesomeness of the forest. Here are some more nearby Washington State Parks.
Portland’s Best Urban Parks
If you’re looking for some more options close to home, I’d suggest heading to one of Portland’s best urban parks. Chances are you have one located 10 minutes from you home and have free parking.
My personal favorite is Powell Butte Nature Park. It has expansive trails, panoramic views and an interpretive center. Best of all, it is accessible to everyone with well maintained paths, some are event paved.
Free Fishing Weekend
Every year, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife invites reeling newbies and advanced anglers to participate in free fishing weekends. The final event of the year is taking place during Thanksgiving weekend. I’ve gathered a few recommended fishing locations. And don’t forget about free parking at Blue Lake Regional Park on Friday!
There are so many places to visit that are much better than the inside of a retail store.
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