The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department is offering a special opportunity for nature enthusiasts this holiday season. On Friday, November 29, 2024, all state parks will waive their day-use parking fees in celebration of Green Friday, a tradition aimed at encouraging Oregonians to spend time outdoors with family and friends.
The fee waiver applies to nearly all parks, with the exception of Falls Creek and Nehalem Bay, which are closed for the season due to ongoing construction projects. While parking fees will be waived for the day, the department notes that camping and rental fees will still apply where applicable.
Stefanie Knowlton, a representative for Oregon State Parks, emphasized that Green Friday provides an affordable alternative to traditional post-Thanksgiving shopping. “It’s just a nice way to encourage people to come outside, spend time with some friends and family,” she said.
This is one of three occasions each year when the parks department waives day-use parking fees. In addition to Green Friday, the department also offers free parking on New Year’s Day and State Parks Day, the first Saturday in June. These fee waivers are particularly valuable for those seeking affordable outdoor activities, especially with upcoming price hikes.
Starting January 2, 2025, day-use parking fees at Oregon state parks will increase to $10. This price hike is part of a broader initiative to raise fees for parking, reservations, and camping. The last increase in day-use parking fees occurred in 2009. However, Knowlton clarified that annual passes for day-use parking will remain at the current price. Throughout December, the department is offering a special promotion where visitors can purchase a year-long parking pass for just $25. The pass is valid for one calendar year from the date of purchase.
For those looking to explore the parks without paying for parking, the department also offers day-use parking passes through select libraries. Multnomah County Library cardholders can check out one parking pass per year. While Deschutes Public Library does not currently participate, it is working on incorporating this benefit into its Discovery Pass program.
Oregonians planning to visit state parks can find a list of participating parks and fee details on the Oregon State Parks website. Despite the anticipated increase in visitation on Green Friday, Knowlton reassured the public that parking capacity should not be a concern. “The lots are designed to accommodate some of our busiest days in the middle of summer,” she said. “There’s more than enough capacity to be able to accommodate that little spike in the fall visitation.”
With fee waivers, affordable parking passes, and ample space, the Oregon State Parks Department is making it easier than ever for people to experience the state’s natural beauty this holiday season.
