Free admission to state parks offered for Arizona residents on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

January 7, 2026

Arizona residents are invited to enjoy a fee-free day at an Arizona state park on Monday, January 19, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. 

Visitors must show their Arizona ID at state park entrances for free entry to the more than 30 state parks and natural areas in observance of the federal holiday.

"We're thrilled to welcome Arizona residents for free on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day," said Bob Broscheid, executive director of Arizona State Parks and Trails. "This has become a tradition our visitors look forward to each year, and we're grateful we can continue offering it. Our state parks conserve beautiful natural spaces and Arizona history while providing outstanding opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Though entry fees are essential to keeping our parks open and maintained, we believe making our parks accessible on this meaningful holiday is a wonderful way to thank Arizonans for their ongoing support."

The offer applies to day-use only. Fees still apply for camping, concessions, and tours, including Kartchner Caverns cave tours and Riordan Mansion historic home tours. Arizona State Parks and Trails does not receive taxpayer funding to operate its parks. Ranger pay, park maintenance, and regular costs like utilities are all funded through park fees.

Arizona's state parks encompass diverse landscapes from desert to mountain forests, and offer a range of recreational opportunities including hiking, fishing, paddling, biking, picnicking, and visits to historic sites. Directions, facility details, and amenities for each park are available at AZStateParks.com/Find-A-Park.

 

Connecting people with the outdoors and history of Arizona to build a lifetime of memories.

For information about the more than 30 Arizona state parks and natural areas, the trails and Off-Highway Vehicle programs and State Historic Preservation Office, call 1-877-MY-PARKS or visit AZStateParks.com.

PRESS CONTACT: Michelle Thompson at (480) 589-8877 - Email: pio@azstateparks.gov.