Press Release

November 5, 2009
Colorado State Parks

Colorado State Parks Celebrate Veterans Day with Free Admission for Military Men and Women

Gov. Bill Ritter announced Veterans Day, Nov. 11, as a free day for military veterans.

Gov. Bill Ritter announced today that all military veterans will receive free admission at Colorado's 42 state parks on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, to recognize their service to the nation.
 
"We owe this nation's military men and women a debt of gratitude that can never be fully repaid," Gov. Ritter said. "In honor of their dedication to service, country and freedom, I'm pleased to offer veterans free entrance to state parks on such an important day. It is one small way that we as a state can recognize the sacrifices they have made for all of us."
 
To obtain free admission to a state park, veterans must show a valid military service identification card at the park gate. Any other passengers in the vehicle will also be admitted for free. This offer is to be for free entrance only; other fees, rules and regulations will apply.

"Colorado State Parks gives thanks for the sacrifices that military men and women have made," said state parks director Dean Winstanley. "We treasure that service to America and want to honor them for protecting our freedom."

Many Colorado State Parks staff and volunteers are military veterans, said Winstanley. Many more have family members who have served or are currently serving their country, he said. Several federal land management agencies - the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service, the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Reclamation and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - are also waiving fees on Veterans Day.
 
Throughout 2009, Colorado State Parks is celebrating its 50th anniversary as a leader in providing high-quality outdoor recreation opportunities, protecting the state's important landscapes, teaching generations about nature and partnering with communities.

Attracting more than 11 million visitors per year, Colorado's State Parks play an important rule in Colorado's recreation economy and quality of life. Colorado State Parks encompass 224,531 land and water acres, offering some of the best outdoor recreation destinations in the state. Colorado State Parks also manage more than 4,000 campsites, and 57 cabins and yurts.  

For more information on Colorado State Parks or to purchase an annual pass online, visit:

www.colorado.gov/parks