Oregon State Parks Day on June 7: Free Parking and Events on Coast, Inland - Includes the Stars

Published 05/19/25 at 7:15 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Manzanita, Oregon) – Every year it happens: since 1998 Oregon's state parks give back in yet another way, just as the busy tourist begins to kick in. Each year brings State Parks Day throughout the state, where Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) provides a special gesture of thanks by offering free camping and day-use parking. (Above: Fort Stevens / Oregon Coast Beach Connection)

This year, the event falls on Saturday, June 7.

“We are honored to care for and share these places with Oregonians and all our visitors. Their dedication to preserving Oregon’s natural treasures has made our park system what it is today,” said OPRD Director Lisa Sumption.

On June 7, OPRD will waive parking fees at 25 parks that typically charge them and offer free camping for all tent, RV, and horse campsites. Many parks will also host special events to celebrate the occasion.

After months of preparation - clearing storm damage, removing debris, and restoring trails - park staff are ready to welcome visitors for State Parks Day and the summer season.

A look at the state parks events: many of these happen all over the Oregon coast as well.

The Cove Palisades will hold the Festival of the Land from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., celebrating the history, food, and culture of Central Oregon. The event will feature Dutch oven cooking demonstrations, kids’ activities, a petting zoo, educational displays, a mini farmers market, and more.

L.L. Stub Stewart in the Oregon Coast Range will host a summer Star Party in partnership with OMSI and Rose City Astronomers, beginning at 9:30 p.m. in the Hilltop Day-Use Area. Guests of all experience levels can explore the night sky through telescopes and binoculars and enjoy a presentation by OMSI staff. Park staff will also lead a nighttime hike. Overflow parking is available at Clayhill Day-Use Area. Visit OMSI’s website for possible weather-related cancellations.

Carl G. Washburne near Florence will offer a free State Parks Day BBQ from noon to 1 p.m.

Washburne State Park - Oregon Coast Beach Connection

Spring Valley Access will organize a trail work party from 9 a.m. to noon, inviting volunteers to clear brush, rake debris, and pick up trash.

Tryon Creek State Natural Area in the Portland area welcomes visitors to explore the Interpretive Nature Center, navigate its extensive trail system, and attend a guided hike.

Prineville Reservoir will host a free BBQ near the Dark Sky Observatory from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Silver Falls - Oregon Coast Beach Connection

Silver Falls will feature an exhibit on the emerald ash borer (EAB) from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., highlighting the beetle’s threat to Oregon’s ash trees. Oregon State Parks and Oregon Department of Forestry staff will be on hand to discuss conservation efforts.

Fort Stevens at Warrenton will provide free disc golf lessons from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Columbia Shores Disc Golf Course.

Harris Beach – at Brookings on the south coast - will hold a multi-park scavenger hunt on June 7, encouraging visitors to find natural formations, unique flora, and historical sites. Scavenger hunt cards can be picked up at the Harris Beach registration booth or from rangers and hosts at Alfred Loeb.

Harris Beach - OPRD

Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park in Florence will offer a guided hike starting at 10:30 a.m. The moderate, two-mile trek through forest terrain lasts about an hour and concludes with a hot dog BBQ. The hike is recommended for ages 10 and up, and due to uneven ground, strollers and mobility devices are not advised. Participants should bring water, sunscreen, and sturdy closed-toed shoes for ankle support. The event will begin at the Sand Dunes Day-Use Parking area.

For a full list of State Parks Day events, visit stateparks.oregon.gov.

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