TULSA, OK – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers today announced that it will waive day use fees at its more than 2,800 USACE-operated recreation areas nationwide in observance of Presidents Day Jr. Day, February 16 including those within the Tulsa District.
The waiver covers fees for boat launch ramps and swimming beaches. The waiver does not apply to camping and camping-related services, or fees for specialized facilities (group picnic shelters) and events. Other agencies that manage recreation areas on USACE lands are encouraged, but not required, to offer the waiver in the areas that they manage.
Visitors are encouraged to contact USACE lake and river projects before visiting to ensure recreation areas are open. More information can be found at www.corpslakes.us.
USACE also offers other free days throughout the year to mark days of celebration and commemoration. In 2026, free days are:
Presidents Day: 16 February 2026.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Birthday: 16 June 2026.
Independence Day Weekend: 3-5 July 2026.
National Public Lands Day: 26 September 2026.
Veterans Day: 11 November 2026.
The fee-free initiative was first instituted on Veterans Day 2006 with the intent to support and honor the men and women who have served the nation in the U.S. Armed Forces.
USACE is one of the leading federal providers of outdoor and water-based recreation, hosting millions of visits annually to its more than 400 lake and river projects. In 2023 more than 9 million people visited one of the 271 Tulsa District recreation areas. It’s estimated that 90 percent of the USACE-operated recreation areas are within 50 miles of metropolitan areas, offering diverse outdoor activities for all ages close to home.
To discover a USACE recreation site nearest you, please visit the USACE website at https://corpslakes.erdc.dren.mil/visitors/visitors.cfm or visit www.recreation.gov.
