Alabama Honors Veterans With State Park Perks

As Alabamians prepare for Memorial Day weekend and the start of summer travel season, Governor Kay Ivey is encouraging veterans and active-duty military members to take advantage of special outdoor recreation benefits offered across the state.

According to a press release from the office of the Governor, Alabama’s Parks for Patriots Program provides free admission to participating Alabama State Parks day-use areas for veterans and active-duty service members. The program also offers a 15 percent discount on lodging at Alabama State Park lodges, cabins and campgrounds.

“Throughout my time in office, supporting our veterans and active military members has been a priority,” Governor Ivey said in the press release. “Their selflessness has made our freedom possible.”

The Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has offered the Parks for Patriots program since 2017 as a way to thank military members and veterans for their service. According to the press release, the program applies to veterans and active-duty personnel from any branch of the U.S. military.

ADCNR Commissioner Chris Blankenship said Alabama’s parks serve as places of “reflection and serenity” while honoring those who have served the country.

Get our free mobile app

The state also continues to provide additional outdoor recreation benefits for military members. According to the press release, Alabama offers discounted hunting and fishing licenses for disabled veterans and waives regular hunting and fishing license requirements for active-duty Alabama residents who are home on leave. Nonresident active-duty military personnel stationed in Alabama can also purchase hunting and fishing licenses at resident rates.

Many Alabama State Parks also feature structures originally built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, showcasing the long-standing connection between military service and Alabama’s public lands.