Military Get In Free Memorial Day At Benicia State Rec. Area

BENICIA, CA — The California State Parks system is honoring the service of U.S. military veterans and active and reserve members of the U.S. military this Memorial Day by offering them free admission Monday to participating parks across the Golden State, including Benicia State Recreation Area.

"Thank you to the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country," said California State Parks Director Armando Quintero. "In their honor, State Parks is offering military individuals complimentary admission to some of the most amazing places within California's State Park System."

There are 280 California State Parks units, and of those, 134 are offering free admission this Memorial Day.

Benicia State Recreation Area, at 1 State Park Road, is open 8 a.m.-sunset and offers fishing at Dillon Point, camping and more than 2 miles of paved trails. It is also a prime spot for birding and has a native plant garden.

To receive free admission, veterans, active duty and reserve military personnel just need to show a valid military ID or proof of honorable discharge.

Despite the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, California State Parks anticipates large crowds this Memorial Day — one of the busiest weekends of the year.

Since January when the state first lifted its stay-home order, State Parks has reopened the majority of its campgrounds although a few sites, including group campsites, remain closed to the public because of the pandemic, wildfire impacts or other issues. Day-use outdoor areas have remained open and State Parks has reopened some indoor facilities such as visitor centers and museums at limited capacity.

Here are the current COVID-19-related guidelines when visiting state parks.

Know Before You Go: Prior to leaving home, check the status of the park unit you want to visit to find out what restrictions and guidelines are in place. Have a backup plan in case your destination is crowded. Stay home if you are sick.

Plan Ahead: Some restrooms will be temporarily closed to keep up with cleaning schedules. Bring soap/hand sanitizer.

Play It Safe: Find out what precautions you should take when exploring the outdoors, especially if this is your first time visiting the State Park System.

Keep Your Distance: Avoid crowds. If there are too many people at a park or beach, please visit us on a different day.

Wear a Mask: California State Parks continues to follow the guidance provided by the California Department of Public Health.

• Everyone: In indoor settings, such as museums and visitor centers, face coverings are required regardless of vaccination status.
• Fully Vaccinated Persons: Face coverings are not required outdoors except when attending crowded outdoor events.
• Unvaccinated Persons: Face coverings are required outdoors any time physical distancing cannot be maintained.

Leave No Trace: Leave areas as you found them by staying on designated trails and packing out all trash. Do not disturb wildlife or plants.

Find more California State Parks near you.