Tennessee state parks offer special discounts to veterans

Veterans Day designated a Free State Park Day for Tennessee veterans

NASHVILLE – Tennessee State Parks announced Tuesday it will have its annual free state parks day for all Tennessee veterans, offering one free night of camping and/or a complimentary round of golf with appropriate identification. Veterans Day is Monday, Nov. 11.

“On Veterans Day, we honor the many brave men and women who have served our country,” Deputy Commissioner Brock Hill said in a press release. “The state parks family invites all of Tennessee’s veterans to visit us on Nov. 11 and enjoy a day in one of our beautiful parks.”

A few of the parks closest to Oak Ridge include Frozen Head State Park in Wartburg, Cove Lake State Park in Caryville, and Big Ridge State Park in Maynardville. (See the Tennessee State Parks website for information on all the parks.)

The free day on Nov. 11 is in addition to Tennessee State Parks’ current veterans’ policy, which includes a camping discount within the state parks system and is available annually beginning Nov. 1 through March 31, offering a 25 percent reduction off the standard nightly base rates (depending on the type of site chosen). This camping discount is available to Tennessee residents showing proof of prior military duty.

A special state park discount also is in place for active duty military personnel and members of the Tennessee National Guard. This year-round discount is given to all U.S. military—regardless of their branch of service or where they are stationed. Disabled veterans also are eligible for the Tennessee State Parks year-round ADA discount that provides a 25 to 50 percent discount for campsites.

To receive the free state parks day benefits and extended discounts, veterans need to provide proof of residency with a Tennessee driver’s license; and proof of veteran’s status, with a Certificate of Discharge (DD214) or Veterans Administration benefit card.

Tennessee’s 54 state parks offer diverse natural, recreational and cultural experiences for individuals, families, or business and professional groups, the press release said. State park features range from pristine natural areas to 18-hole championship golf courses.

Celebrating its 75th Anniversary this past year, the Tennessee State Parks system was established through legislation in 1937. Today, there is a state park within an hour’s drive of just about anywhere in the state, with features such as pristine natural areas and a variety of lodging and dining choices, the release said.

For more information about Tennessee State Parks, please visit www.tnstateparks.com or connect via Facebook or Twitter. For a free brochure about Tennessee State Parks, call (888) 867-2757.