Entry to Minnesota’s state parks will be free on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, as state officials encourage people to get outdoors.

Lt. Gov. Tina Smith said today that the entry fee to the state’s 76 state parks and recreation areas will be waived on Nov. 27, by proclamation of the governor (pdf). The daily vehicle entry fee to the parks is usually $5.

Smith said: “Visiting these parks is a great way to spend time with family and loved ones, relieve stress, and enjoy exercise in the great outdoors.”

And DNR Commissioner Tom Landwehr said: “We are very fortunate to have such outstanding state parks and trails in Minnesota. So get out there, walk off your turkey dinner and have some fun on Friday!”

While many stores are open with big sales on the day after Thanksgiving, and even now on Thanksgiving evening, the REI outdoor gear chain received much attention when it announced it will be closed on Black Friday and suggested that people get outdoors instead of shopping.