Saturday is Get Outdoors Day! Free admission into national parks
Posted: 06.08.2012 at 12:03 PM
Updated: 06.09.2012 at 8:00 AM
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Saturday is Get Outdoors Day! To mark the occasion Lake Meredith National Recreation Area and Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument will be be waiving entrance fees to the park.

"Outdoor physical activity is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle," said Park Superintendent Cindy Ott-Jones. "These are great places to get out and enjoy hiking and bicycling."

Lake Meredith offers hiking, camping, boating, fishing, and a range of other outdoor activities. Alibates offers ranger-led hikes to the quarries at 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., weather permitting.

The National Get Outdoors Day is in its fifth year, encourages participation in outdoor activities in national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges. Nationwide, hundreds of organizations and businesses will partner to provide fun and healthy events at sites throughout the country.

President Barack Obama has proclaimed June as Great Outdoors Month and encourages everyone to share in the natural splendor of the National Parks. Govenor Rick Perry even said, "The month of June is dedicated to promoting awareness of the great outdoors. We must take time to recognize the rugged majesty of the Lone Star State and teach young Texans all the benefits of spending time in nature."

The National Park Service will have four more fee free days in 2012.