Date: June 1, 2009
Contact: Andrew Munoz, 702-293-8691
FEE-FREE FATHER'S DAY WEEKEND AT LAKE MEAD
LAS VEGAS - Park rangers at Lake Mead National Recreation Area are inviting everyone to take advantage of this summer's first fee-free weekend on Father's Day weekend, June 20-21. The recreation area offers an excellent atmosphere for families to enjoy a special day with their fathers and create lasting memories.
All 147 National Park Service sites that charge fees for entry will waive entrance fees from June 20-21, July 18-19 and August 15-16. For the first time Lake Mead National Recreation Area will also be waiving the lake use fee normally charged for boats. Visitors who arrive on these days will receive a free day use pass valid for that day only.
"National parks offer a great value and beautiful environment. With Lake Mead and Lake Mohave here in the recreation area, there are endless opportunities for fun and relaxation on the water," said William Dickinson, superintendent of Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
Park rangers hope that the fee-free weekends will encourage people to get outdoors and enjoy their national parks.
Located only 30 minutes from Las Vegas, Lake Mead National Recreation Area is a popular destination for locals and tourists. The recreation area was recognized as the 11th most visited U.S. tourist attraction in 2008 by Forbes Traveler.
Picnicking, camping, fishing, swimming and boating are popular activities in the recreation area. Attractions at the lake also offer houseboat and speedboat rentals, lodging, lake tours, dinner cruises, and river rafting trips.
Entrance fees to the recreation area are normally $5 for a five day vehicle pass and the lake use fee is $10 for a five day boat pass. Visitors can purchase an annual vehicle pass for $20. Annual boat passes are also $20.
To plan your trip to Lake Mead and Lake Mohave visit http://www.nps.gov/lame. For information about rentals, lodging, and tours visit http://www.funonthelake.com.
To learn more about fee-free weekends in national parks around the country, go to http://www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm.
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