The Indiana Department of Natural Resources has announced they will recognize current and former military members, encourage volunteerism and offer nature activities as part of this year’s National Public Lands Day, celebrated on Sept. 28. Active-duty military personnel and veterans can enter Indiana state park and reservoir properties as well as Deam and Starve Hollow state recreation areas for free on that day only. The free admission extends to anyone in the same vehicle.
Active duty military personnel and veterans should show military ID, a V.A. card or Disabled Hoosier Veteran license plate, an Indiana veteran’s driver’s license or discharge papers with accompanying state photo ID.
National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort for public lands. Volunteer opportunities at Indiana state park and reservoir properties on Sept. 28 include collecting wild prairie seeds for resowing on DNR properties, construction projects, gardening and trail clean up – but National Public Lands Day isn’t all work and no play, according to DNR officials. Properties will also be offering hikes, pioneer activities, crafts and live bird shows.
The fun continues the next day as well, as state parks, reservoirs and Deam and Starve Hollow SRAs are offering free gate admission to Indiana state employees on Sunday. Indiana state employees should show their employee ID badge or a paycheck and other form of photo ID.
Additionally, volunteer opportunities and fun activities will continue at many properties on Sunday.
For property-specific information on volunteer opportunities and a wide range of fall programs and special event weekends, see InterpretiveServices.IN.gov or call the specific property you plan to visit.
