Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has named Friday, November 28, 2025, “Fresh Air Friday.” On that day, vehicle entry fees will be waived at every Colorado state park for the day.
This special one-day, statewide free-entry event is intended to get folks outside instead of waiting in long Black Friday lines or hunkering in front of their computers.
Fresh Air Friday history
Fresh Air Friday isn’t new. CPW launched the program back in 2015 as a Black Friday alternative. The idea coaxed folks to trade noshing on leftovers for hikes, paddles, and other outdoor family time.
Fresh Air Friday has returned in most years since 2015 as an annual post-Thanksgiving tradition. Community partners like Great Outdoors Colorado and the state outdoor-recreation office have helped support and promote the day.
What’s covered and what’s not
The Fresh Air Friday waiver covers the standard vehicle/day-use entrance fee for Colorado’s state parks. This means the usual per-vehicle park admission you’d pay at the gate or online is waived for the event.
RVers should know that does not mean everything in the park is free. Camping reservation fees, cabin or yurt rentals, marina or boat permits, vehicle/boat registrations, timed entry or special program fees, and hunting/fishing licenses remain required and should be reserved or purchased separately. If you plan to stay overnight or use facilities that normally carry additional charges, assume those fees still apply.
You, too!
Even if the state parks in your area do not observe Fresh Air Friday, get outside! Walk off that turkey and extra helping of stuffing and pumpkin pie and enjoy the fresh air.
If you happen to be in Colorado, lucky you! Take this chance to see some of the state’s fabulous parks before Fresh Air Friday passes you by!
How do you spend Black Friday? Tell us in the comments below.
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