In honor of Veterans Day, Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission is offering a free day on Thursday, Nov. 11. Day-use visitors will not need a Discover Pass to visit state parks.

“We hope on Veterans Day, especially, the public will take the time to thank a veteran for his or her service to our country,” said state parks Director Don Hoch. “And we’re pleased to honor those who served by recognizing this day with free entrance for all to state parks.”

State Parks free days are in keeping with legislation that created the Discover Pass, a $30 annual or $10 one-day permit required on lands managed by Washington State Parks and the Washington departments of Natural Resources (DNR) and Fish & Wildlife (WDFW). The Discover Pass legislation provided that State Parks could designate up to 12 free days each year when the pass would not be required to visit state parks. The Discover Pass is still required to access lands managed by WDFW and DNR on these days.

Free days apply only to day-use access by vehicle, not overnight stays or rented facilities.

The Washington State Parks and Recreation Commission manages more than 100 state parks, including Lake Sammamish State Park at 2000 NW Sammamish Road, Issaquah.