Media Release from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources - July 2, 2019

Minnesota state parks and recreation areas are a great place to celebrate the July 4th holiday quietly with family or friends, away from loud firework displays. Minnesota rules prohibit the use of fireworks in state parks. 

“Not everyone enjoys the light and sound associated with fireworks, particularly some of our military service members,” said Erika Rivers, state parks and trails director with the Department of Natural Resources. “Minnesota state parks and recreation areas offer a firework-free environment for those who want to celebrate Independence Day in peace and quiet.”

Active military personnel and veterans with a service-related disability are also eligible to receive a free year-round vehicle permit, providing unlimited access to all 75 Minnesota state parks and recreation areas.

“Providing free access to Minnesota state parks and a quiet environment is just one way to thank current and former members of the military for their service and sacrifice to this great nation,” Rivers said.

The DNR is recognized as a Yellow Ribbon Company for its support of active and retired military personnel and their families.

A list of especially quiet getaways is included in the summer guide on the Parks and Trails website. For more information, visit mndnr.gov or contact the DNR Information Center at [email protected] or 888-646-6367 (8 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday).