Tulsa District U.S. Army Corps of Engineers waives fees and invites volunteers to participate in National Public Lands Day, Sept. 26

TULSA, Okla. – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Tulsa District announced today it will waive day-use fees normally charged at boat launch ramps and swimming beaches at its recreation areas in recognition of National Public Lands Day (NPLD) Saturday, Sept. 26.

The waiver does not apply to camping and camping-related services, or fees for specialized facilities such as group picnic shelters. Other agencies and partners that manage recreation areas located on USACE lands are encouraged, but not required, to comply with this waiver of day-use fees in the areas they manage.

“National Public Lands Day is an opportunity to celebrate the places that belong to everyone,” said Col. Jessica Goffena, commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Tulsa District. “By waiving day-use fees and welcoming volunteers to our projects, we hope to encourage more people to enjoy these public lands and join us in preserving them for future generations.”

USACE welcomes volunteers to continue the annual tradition of public service by participating in NPLD events.

Volunteers who participate in one of USACE’s NPLD in-person activities will be issued a fee-free coupon if the volunteer site is participating in the coupon program. Volunteers should check with their local USACE project for more information. The fee-free coupon is valid for one year from the date of issuance and may be used for one day of entrance or day use fees at any participating federal agency’s park, forest or recreation area that charges either of these types of fees.

This year's NPLD theme, “Caring for Our Shared America,” is an inspiring call to action as we observe America’s 250th anniversary, recognizing that caring for these spaces strengthens not only the landscape itself, but also the bonds of participants as stewards of a shared American story, passed down through generations and carried forward into the future according to NEEF.

Three Tulsa District lakes will host National Public Lands Day events this year:

Eufaula Lake When: Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Where: Eufaula Cove and Bunny Creek Details: Volunteers will remove trash and debris from public areas to help create and maintain a cleaner environment. Contact: Noah Davis, 918-799-5843

Kaw Lake When: Friday, Sept. 25, 2026, from 9 a.m. to noon Where**:** Kaw Lake Details: This annual event will begin with a safety briefing at 9 a.m. Activities may include litter and debris removal, tree trimming, painting, clearing trail systems and improving facilities in high-use areas. Volunteers may select the activity with which they are most comfortable. Trash bags, gloves and drinks will be available throughout the event. Lunch will be provided by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Kaw Lake Project Office. Contact: Tori Haggard, 580-762-5611, ext. 3615

Fort Gibson Lake When: Saturday, Sept. 26, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Where: Toppers Public Use Area Details: Volunteers will participate in a cleanup of the public use area. A dumpster will be provided, along with a limited number of trash grabbers, buckets and gloves. The event may also provide an opportunity for high school seniors to complete community service hours. Toppers Fire Department will provide a cooling station, and the Fort Gibson Lake Association will provide bottled water. Contact: Josh Glazebrook, Fort Gibson Lake Project Office, 918-682-4314

For more information on NPLD or to find event information, visit http://www.publiclandsday.org/ or call your local USACE lake or river project office.

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