Black Friday is right around the corner, but some people are choosing to spend time outdoors instead of in shopping malls.
The DNR is offering free admission to any Indiana State Park, reservoir or state forest recreation area that charges gate admission on Black Friday, including state off-road riding areas.
For those with social media accounts, using the hashtag #OptOutside can score you additional rewards, such as annual passes, lake permits and camping gear.
To participate, just post a photo the the Indiana State Parks Facebook page or the DNR Instagram page, with the hashtags #OptOutside or #OptOutsideIN. You’ll immediately be entered into a drawing to win various prizes.
For campers, those who choose to camp or stay at an Indiana State Park Inn on Black Friday will be entered into a drawing for camping and inn gift cards.
Outdoor gear retailer REI started the #OptOutside initiative in 2015, announcing it would close its stores on Black Friday to encourage people to experience nature instead of waiting in long lines at cash registers.
