Oregon State Parks will continue its tradition of offering free parking on the day after Thanksgiving.
Most parks don’t charge a fee, but about two dozen parks normally do, including Jasper State Recreation Site and Winberry Day-Use area east of Springfield.
The agency says the tradition of offeing free parking on the day after Thanksgiving is a way to encourage people to get outdoors on a day when many Oregonians typically go shopping or watch football.
The Parks Department says visitors need to observe pandemic restrictions such as not gathering in large groups and maintaining a six-foot distance from others.
Typically, the department schedules "Green Friday" events at several parks to encourage more visitors. Those events will not be held this year.
Additionally, some events geared toward the holiday season will also be canceled. Those include the popular Shore Acres Holiday Lights event at Shore Acres State Park near Coos Bay, as well as the Silver Falls State Park Christmas Festival near Silverton.
While most state parks are open, some are closed for the season or due to wildfire damage. Visitors are encouraged to check the Oregon State Parks website before heading out.
