Great Parks Announces Expanded Recreation Benefits for Armed Forces Members

Great Parks is expanding its recreation benefits for United States (U.S.) Armed Forces members including discounts for golf, boating, camping and fishing, in a step that will help increase access to greenspace. These benefits build on Great Parks’ existing free Motor Vehicle Permit (MVP) program for U.S. Armed Forces veterans by extending eligibility to active duty and reserve members.

“Great Parks values the commitment and sacrifice of U.S. Armed Forces members and exists to connect all communities to the natural world,” said Todd Palmeter, Great Parks CEO. “Expanding recreation benefits is another step in making our spaces accessible for all users to take advantage of the positive mental and physical experiences of being outdoors.”

Guests currently serving on active duty or in the reserves, as well as honorably or medically discharged veterans, are now eligible for the following: 

• 20% off greens fees at all Great Parks golf courses (valid Monday-Thursday, excluding holidays)
• One (1) complimentary riding cart at all Great Parks golf courses (valid Veterans Day only)
• 20% off non-motorized boat rentals (valid Monday-Friday, excluding holidays)
• 20% off campsite rentals at Miami Whitewater Forest and Winton Woods (valid Sunday-Thursday, excluding holidays; camping cabins not eligible for discount)
• 50% off daily fishing tickets at Lake Isabella (valid Monday-Thursday, excluding holidays).

Discounts apply to regular rates only and cannot be combined with other discounted offers. These individuals may also apply for a free MVP at greatparks.org, providing motor vehicle access to Great Parks’ destinations across Hamilton County. A valid Motor Vehicle Permit (MVP) is required for vehicle entry at Great Parks’ parks and conservation areas across Hamilton County. Otto Armleder Memorial Park and Fernbank Park are co-managed by Great Parks, the Cincinnati Park Board, and the Cincinnati Recreation Commission and do not require a Motor Vehicle Permit. Discounts apply to regular rates only and cannot be combined with other discounted offers.

Great Parks is proud to offer community-driven programs that help guests explore the outdoors. This program is an extension of Great Parks’ Comprehensive Master Plan priority to provide inclusive access to natural spaces for all. The plan calls for added programming for diverse audiences and expanded access for all users. The Master Plan and its priorities were created in partnership with the community and reflect the input of residents. 

More information about how Great Parks makes its destinations available to veterans and other groups is available at GreatParks.org.

Great Parks is home to 22 parks and conservation areas, including more than 18,000 acres, 84 miles of trails and more than one-third of Hamilton County’s total open space.