INDIANA – National Public Lands Day is Saturday, Sept. 25. Hoosiers can celebrate by supporting their favorite DNR property by doing volunteer work or simply visiting.
National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort involving public lands. DNR properties will have programs for visitors to volunteer as individuals or as part of many events across Indiana, but they can also choose to visit and just enjoy their favorite areas.
Sept. 25 is also National Hunting & Fishing Day. Created in 1971 to thank hunters and anglers across the U.S., the day recognizes the power of individuals as a positive force in the protection of natural resources.
The day also serves as a way to acknowledge all the ways these groups have provided the funding foundation for wildlife conservation. Join us in this celebration by exploring some of the many Fish & Wildlife areas, parks, forests, and other public lands available throughout Indiana.
Looking for a more hands-on way to experience the state’s natural spaces? Sept. 25 is also the last Free Fishing Day of 2021. On Free Fishing Days, Indiana residents can fish Indiana’s public waters without a fishing license or trout/salmon stamp. Several hunting seasons will also be open, including dove, sora, snipe, teal, and squirrel. Also, youth deer season starts the same weekend. As fall begins in Indiana, invite your friends and family to join you outdoors and take time to safely do what you love with those you love spending time with.
On Sunday, Sept. 26, Indiana State Parks, Indiana State Forests, and State Recreation Areas will offer free admission. The entire weekend serves as a reminder that public lands are places for outdoor recreation, conservation, and making memories with families and friends. Events include hikes, pioneer activities, crafts, fishing programs, live bird shows, volunteer activities, and more.
For a complete list of programs, see calendar.dnr.IN.gov. Information about how to be a DNR volunteer can be found at on.IN.gov/dnrvolunteer.
Share your DNR public land experience by using #NPLD2021.
