Jefferson City, Missouri – Missouri State Parks is proud to announce its participation in the nationwide Blue Star Museums initiative, a program that extends free admission to U.S. military personnel and their families. This initiative starts on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 18, and will continue through Labor Day, Monday, September 2.
The Blue Star Museums program is a collaborative effort among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, the Department of Defense, and over 2,000 museums across the country. It is designed to express gratitude to the military community for their service and sacrifices.
Active-duty U.S. military members and their families can enjoy free admission to various museums and historic sites within the Missouri State Parks system simply by presenting their military ID.
For those interested in exploring these cultural treasures, detailed information about the Missouri State Parks locations participating in the Blue Star Museums program can be found at mostateparks.com. Additionally, a comprehensive list of all participating museums nationwide is available at arts.gov.
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Additional Benefits for Military Personnel
Beyond the Blue Star Museums program, Missouri State Parks also offers a year-round military camping discount. This benefit provides a $2 discount on camping rates at state parks for retired, veteran, and active-duty military personnel.
Family members of active-duty military personnel are also eligible for this discount upon presenting a military ID. More details about the camping discount and the 2024 camping rates can be found at mostateparks.com.
Moreover, during the month of July, visitors to Missouri’s state parks and historic sites are encouraged to “round up” their purchase totals. The additional funds collected will support veteran-specific programs, such as the Hero Deer Hunt and Veterans’ Deer Hunt, which are tailored to give back to those who have served.
Missouri State Parks is committed to recognizing the valor and sacrifice of military members and their families. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to ensure that veterans and active military personnel can enjoy the natural and historical riches of the state, thereby enhancing their quality of life and providing recreational opportunities as a form of appreciation for their service to the nation.
For more on what Missouri State Parks has to offer, visit mostateparks.com.
