The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will waive day use fees at more than 2,800 recreation areas nationwide in observance of Presidents Day on Feb. 16, including locations across the Tulsa District.
The fee waiver applies to day use areas such as boat launch ramps and swimming beaches. It does not cover camping, camping related services or fees for specialized facilities such as group picnic shelters or events.
Other agencies that manage recreation areas on Corps land are encouraged, but not required, to offer the waiver at sites they oversee.
Officials urge visitors to contact their local U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lake or river project before traveling to confirm recreation areas are open. More information is available at corpslakes.us.
The Corps also announced additional fee free days scheduled in 2026:
- Presidents Day: Feb. 16
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Birthday: June 16
- Independence Day weekend: July 3 through July 5
- National Public Lands Day: Sept. 26
- Veterans Day: Nov. 11
The fee free initiative began on Veterans Day in 2006 as a way to support and honor members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the nation’s leading federal providers of outdoor and water based recreation. The agency manages more than 400 lake and river projects and hosts millions of visits each year.
In 2023, more than 9 million people visited one of the 271 recreation areas in the Tulsa District. Officials estimate about 90 percent of Corps operated recreation areas are located within 50 miles of metropolitan areas, offering outdoor activities close to home.
To find a recreation site, visit corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil or recreation.gov.
