COLUMBIA, SC, February 11, 2015 – The Francis Marion and Sumter National Forests will join national forests across the country, waiving fees at many popular day-use recreation sites in honor of Presidents Day.

“Our fee-free days provide an opportunity for new and repeat visitors to come out and explore South Carolina’s national forests,” said Forest Supervisor Rick Lint. “There’s something for everyone, from the avid sportsman to the casual hiker or nature observer.”

In honor of Presidents Day, Feb. 16, 2015, the Francis Marion Ranger District will waive day-use fees at Buck Hall Recreation Area and the Wambaw Cycle Trail. The Sumter’s Enoree Ranger District will waive day-use fees at Buncombe Horse Trail. On the Sumter’s Long Cane Ranger District, fees will be waived for day-use at Fell Camp.

While use fees are not charged for 98 percent of national forests–and more than two-thirds of developed recreation sites can be enjoyed for free–fees charged for popular day use areas are critical to their maintenance, upkeep and patrol.

The Forest Service manages its lands for multiple uses, including recreation. America’s national forests and grasslands offer more than 150,000 miles of trails for hiking, biking, equestrian and motorized use, and more than 10,000 developed recreation sites.