TULSA — Families headed to the lake for America’s 250th birthday celebration can leave a little more money in the snack fund.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Tulsa District will waive day-use fees at its recreation areas July 3-5, giving visitors free access to Corps-managed boat ramps and swimming beaches across 38 projects in Oklahoma, southern Kansas and northern Texas.
The fee-free weekend includespopulardestinations such as Keystone Lake, Oologah Lake, Kaw Lake and Eufaula Lake. Visitors can launch a boat, hit the beach or cool off at one of the district’s 51 improved swimming beaches without paying the usual day-use fee.
“This is our way of saying thank you to the communities we serve,” said B.J. Parkey, chief of operations for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Tulsa District. “For more than 80 years, the Tulsa District has built and maintained these lakes, which provide outstanding recreation opportunities right here at home, as well as flood risk reduction, water supply, clean hydroelectric power and inland navigation along the MKARNS.”
The waiver applies to fees for boat launch ramps and swimming beaches. It does not apply to camping, camping-related services, group picnic shelters, specialized facilities or events.
Other agencies that manage recreation areas on Corps land are encouraged, but not required, to offer the same waiver.
Visitors are encouraged to check with their lake or river project before heading out to make sure recreation areas are open. Information about Corps recreation areas is available at corpslakes.us.
The Corps also offers several fee-free days each year to mark days of celebration and commemoration. Remaining fee-free days in 2026 include Independence Day weekend, July 3-5; National Public Lands Day, Sept. 26; and Veterans Day, Nov. 11.