Colorado Parks and Wildlife offers free park entrance to active-duty military and veterans during August as a result of House Bill 15-1045, signed into law on May 27.

"We invite Colorado's military community to enjoy all of the beauty and recreational opportunities Colorado State Parks have to offer," said CPW Parks and Recreation Assistant Director, Margaret Taylor.

CPW encourages eligible individuals to get their pass in advance at any CPW office or state park to avoid delays at the gate on a planned recreation day.

"Archery, boating, rock climbing, hiking, geocaching and wildlife-viewing, along with well-equipped nature centers and picnic areas are just a few of the options for service members to relax and recharge," added Taylor.

Veterans and active-duty military personnel (including active-duty, Reserve and National Guard members) can obtain a military hang-tag pass valid for free admission during August, by showing the CPW parks staff one of the following: active or retired military identification; DD Form 2765, DD214; Veterans Affairs medical card; a current Colorado driver's license or state issued identification card with the veteran seal printed on it.

Once eligibility is confirmed, the military hang-tag pass is issued to the service member. The hang-tag pass is valid when hung from the rear-view mirror of a service member occupied vehicle, and admits all passengers of that vehicle.

Activities like fishing and camping will still require a valid license and permit.