National seashore announces six fee-free days in 2021

HARLINGEN — Miles of beaches at Padre Island National Seashore will be there for the taking on six fee-free days planned for 2021.

Officials at the national park have announced fee waivers for six days, starting Jan. 18, Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

The rest of the free days are Saturday, April 17, the first day of National Park Week; Wednesday, Aug. 4, the Green American Outdoors Act anniversary; Wednesday, Aug. 25, the National Park Service’s birthday; Saturday, Sept. 25, National Public Lands Day; and Thursday, Nov. 11, Veterans Day.

“South Texas has some of the best weather and most comforting stretches of coastal beach anywhere. Fee-free days are wonderful opportunities to experience our federal lands and appreciate the resources we’ve set aside for everybody’s enjoyment,” said Eric Brunnemann, national seashore superintendent.

The usual fees to enter the park are $10 per vehicle and $7 per motorcycle.

The entrance fee waiver for the fee-free days does not cover amenity or user fees for activities such as camping or boat launches.

Annual passes for Padre Island National Seashore are available for $45, and seven-day passes are $25.

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