Looking for a place to go this weekend? How about getting outdoors to enjoy the beauty of nature via the USDA Forest Service recreation sites at no charge? The National Forests and Grasslands in Texas is waiving fees at day-use recreation sites Saturday, June 8, for “National Get Outdoors Day” to encourage healthy, active outdoor fun.
The diversity of Texas woods, creeks and rivers has always appealed to visitors looking for a firsthand experience with the state’s dense forests, colorful wildflowers, abundant wildlife, and the natural scenic beauty of the outdoors.
But, did you know there can be health benefits as well? Apart from the obvious like fresh air and exercise, studies that show that a walk in the forest may help boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, reduce stress, decrease depression, and more.
This weekend is a great chance to refresh while enjoying hiking, paddling, or biking taking in the sights and sounds on the trails. Some locations also offer places of historic interest such as the Aldridge Historic Sawmill Site in the Angelina National Forest or the Indian Mounds Wilderness in the Sabine National Forest.
“We hope this free day offers an incentive to all people to experience the great outdoors in our forests and grasslands,” Forest Supervisor Eddie Taylor said.
Camping fees remain in effect, but day-use fees will be waived Saturday, June 8 at these recreation areas and trails:
• Angelina National Forest: Caney Creek and Townsend.
• Sabine National Forest: Haley’s Ferry, Red Hill, East Hamilton, Indian Mounds, Lakeview and Willow Oak.
• Davy Crockett National Forest: Ratcliff Lake and Piney Creek Horse Trail.
• Sam Houston National Forest: Cagle Boat Ramp, Scotts Ridge, and Double Lake.
• Caddo and Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands: Coffee Mill Lake, Black Creek Lake, and East Lake Crockett.
Other fee-free days are National Public Lands Day and Veteran’s Day weekend.
For more information, contact the Angelina District Office at 936-897-1068; Sabine District Office at 409-625-1940; Davy Crockett District Office at 936-655-2299; Sam Houston District Office at 936-344-6205; the Caddo and Lyndon B. Johnson Grasslands at 940-627-5475, or visit the website at: www.fs.usda.gov/texas.
