DCNR thanks veterans across Pennsylvania and the country for their service. To honor these brave men and women, we aren’t limiting our sincere “thank you” to one day only.
We offer events, amenities, and outdoor experiences that can be enjoyed by veterans and their families throughout November -- and all year long.
Veterans and the Outdoors
Many Pennsylvanians enjoy the outdoors because experiencing nature -- through hiking, fishing, picnicking, etc. -- improves your mood and oftentimes provides physical benefits.
Being outdoors also positively impacts our veterans. Studies show that recreating in nature boosts veterans’ mental well-being, and provides many other emotional, social, and physical benefits (PDF).
DCNR Events for Veterans and Families
To encourage veterans and their families and friends to get outside and enjoy our state parks and forests, and as a way for us to show our appreciation, DCNR has several planned events for Veterans’ Day and throughout November.
Below are some celebrations and activities you won’t want to miss. You also can check our calendar of events for additional opportunities.
Veterans Appreciation Walk at Prince Gallitzin State Park
Veterans and active military, and their families and friends, as well as anyone who would like to show their support and appreciation for our military, are invited to enjoy a walk in the park on November 4 from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. Come to enjoy an autumn day outdoors, meet local service men and women, and make new friends!
Steel City Salutes the Troops at Point State Park
Join us and our partners on November 11 from 10:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. for a day of celebration at Point State Park in Pittsburgh. At this event, you will have the opportunity to:
- Enjoy displays and observe equipment from local airmen, soldiers, sailors, and marines
- Meet Pittsburgh Penguins Iceburgh and the Pirate Parrot
- Participate in veteran-owned business networking opportunities
- Enjoy the City of Pittsburgh’s Veterans’ Day parade at 10:30 A.M.
Veterans Appreciation Day at Presque Isle State Park
This year will mark the third annual Veterans Appreciation Day at Presque Isle State Park in honor of our veterans and active service members. Join us on November 11 from 8:00 A.M. to 2:00 P.M. for a day of appreciation and programming that both veterans and non-veterans can enjoy.
Free Tours for Veterans at Washington Historic Park
Washington Crossing Historic Park will offer free tours to all U.S. veterans and active-duty military personnel on Veterans’ Day, November 11, from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. This includes free tours of:
- The Lower Park
- The Thompson-Neely House and Farmstead
- Bowman’s Hill Tower
Honoring Veterans Working at DCNR
To honor DCNR staff who are veterans, we will be highlighting these individuals through DCNR Facebook posts in November.
Visit our Facebook page (@padcnr) throughout the month to learn more about these brave service men and women working to conserve our natural places. You may even spot someone you know!
Accessibility for Disabled Veterans, State Park and Forest Visitors
If you, or a loved one, is a disabled veteran or has specific accessibility needs, DCNR is working to ensure you are able to access and enjoy our outdoor opportunities.
More state parks than ever before are offering adaptive equipment, such as kayaks and kayaking gear, with staff continuing to be trained on their use.
For more information on accessible amenities at state parks, explore DCNR’s interactive map. The map highlights which parks have accessible amenities and what types they offer (cabins, fishing piers, docks, etc.).
For more detailed information about what accessibility features a specific state park or forest offers, contact that state park or state forest.