The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has announced that the next vehicle permit-free, or "free park" day for state parks and recreational areas will be on Saturday, April 25. On this day, vehicle permits are not required for entry at any of the 73 state parks. And while the vehicle permit fee is waived for the day, the cost of other amenities or user fees (e.g., camping, tours, equipment rental, etc.) remains in effect. 

According to the MN DNR, the goal of the program is to encourage friends and families to spend time together in natural settings, saying that most Minnesotans live within 30 miles of a state park.

Ann Pierce, director of the DNR Parks and Trails Division, said in a press release that these seasonal dates are intended to encourage people to explore state parks during times of the year they might not typically visit, such as the quiet winter months or the transition into spring.

According to the DNR, visiting outdoor spaces can provide physical and mental health advantages, including improving immunity, boosting mood, and enhancing overall spiritual and physical well-being. 

The American Psychological Association says that exposure to nature is linked to reduced stress levels, improved attention spans, and an increase in empathy and cooperation among individuals.

The April event is the second of four free park days for 2026 (the first took place on January 19). Upcoming dates include Saturday, June 13, and Friday, November 27. 

For community members unable to attend the designated free days, free park passes can be obtained through the MN State Park Library Park Pass Program. This partnership between the DNR and public libraries allows Minnesotans to check out a seven-day state park pass from more than 200 participating locations, including the Grand Marais Public Library. The program recently expanded its reach to provide 450 passes statewide. At the Grand Marais Public Library, community members can reserve a pass even if they do not have a library card.