State wildlife officials are giving Kansans a chance to enjoy the outdoors at no cost this year, announcing free fishing and free state park entrance days for 2026.
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks said in a news release that residents and visitors can take advantage of designated Free Fishing Days and Free Entrance Days at all 28 Kansas state parks.
According to KDWP spokeswoman Laura Clawson, Free Fishing Days will be held Saturday, June 6, and Sunday, June 7. On those dates, anglers will not need a Kansas fishing license to fish in public waters.
All other regulations will remain in effect, however. Participants must still follow established length limits, creel limits and other fishing rules.
In addition, all Kansas state parks will offer free entrance on Wednesday, April 22. While vehicle entrance fees will be waived that day, camping fees and other associated charges will still apply.
“These free days are a great opportunity for Kansans and visitors alike to get outside and enjoy Kansas’ natural resources,” KDWP Secretary Chris Kennedy said in a statement. “Whether you’re fishing, hiking, picnicking, or simply spending time outdoors, we hope these days encourage people to connect with nature and with each other.”
Kennedy has also designated several additional Free Entrance Days from April through October. Many of those dates coincide with special events and programs aimed at encouraging more people to explore Kansas state parks.
- April 29 – Tuttle Creek State Park
- May 2 – El Dorado State Park
- May 16 – Milford State Park
- June 6 – Prairie Dog State Park
- June 13 – Cedar Bluff State Park; Historic Lake Scott State Park
- June 20 – Wilson State Park
- July 3 – Cross Timbers State Park
- July 11 – Little Jerusalem Badlands State Park
- Sept. 12 – Sand Hills State Park
- Sept. 13 – Lovewell State Park; Webster State Park
- Sept. 19 – Clinton State Park; Hillsdale State Park
- Sept. 26 – Cheney State Park; Crawford State Park; Fall River State Park
- Oct. 10 – Meade State Park
- Oct. 17 – Eisenhower State Park
- Oct. 24 – Kanopolis State Park; Perry State Park; Pomona State Park
State officials say the annual initiative is designed to introduce new visitors to Kansas’ outdoor recreation opportunities while giving longtime park users another reason to plan a trip.