Hoosiers encouraged to get outdoors this Saturday for National Public Lands Day

Monday, September 21, 2026 at 11:00 PM

By Kathy Bottorff

9-22-26 Tuesday News 11 P.M. E-3

This Saturday, September 26th, offers something for every outdoor enthusiast in Indiana. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) invites Hoosiers to celebrate the state's public lands and waters with a full slate of events and activities statewide.

Saturday is National Public Lands Day, recognized annually on the fourth Saturday of September as the nation's largest single day of volunteerism. It's an opportunity for Hoosiers to make a positive impact on public lands through volunteer events and programs at DNR properties statewide. Participants can also collect trash at nearby DNR properties as a rewarding way to help protect wildlife and promote healthy natural resources.

A full list of volunteer events and programs is available at dnr.IN.gov/places-to-go/events on on.IN.gov/dnrvolunteer

Saturday is also National Hunting and Fishing Day — and the last Free Fishing Day of the year. Indiana residents can fish public waters with or without a license, making it an ideal opportunity for newcomers to try the sport.

DNR offers resources for both new and experienced anglers, including its Fishing Guide at on.IN.gov/fishingguide and an interactive map at on.IN.gov/where2fish to help locate fishing sites. Indianapolis-area anglers can use the new Fishing Trip Planner at indianafishingplanner.com to create family-friendly fishing outings.

For hunters, squirrel, dove, and youth deer seasons are open, offering great ways to connect with the outdoors. DNR's Hunting and Trapping Guide, available at on.IN.gov/huntingguide, includes a full list of open seasons and helpful resources for all experience levels.

Beyond fishing and hunting, DNR is encouraging Hoosiers to invite friends and family to explore state properties this weekend and enjoy activities like boating, hiking, bike riding, and wildlife viewing. A trip planner is available at on.IN.gov/recfinder

The entire weekend serves as a reminder that public lands are places for everyone to enjoy outdoor recreation, participate in conservation, and make memories with family and friends.