Free State Parks, Beaches, and Parking
No fee at RI state parks, recreational facilities, and beaches for 100% disabled veterans.
At a glance
- Benefit type
- Recreation & Parks — Rhode Island
- Who it's for
- Veterans
- VA rating needed
- 100% or higher
- Where it applies
- Rhode Island
- Last verified
- May 12, 2026
What is Free State Parks, Beaches, and Parking?
Free State Parks, Beaches, and Parking is a Rhode Island recreation & parks benefit for veterans. No fee at RI state parks, recreational facilities, and beaches for 100% disabled veterans. Requires 100%+ VA disability rating.
Who qualifies
- Requires 100%+ VA disability rating
- Rhode Island residency
Who is eligible
Eligibility
100% service-connected VA disability rating (certificate required). No fee shall be charged to any person with a disability regardless of age at state-owned recreational facilities.
What Free State Parks, Beaches, and Parking covers
Legal Basis
RI State Law 32-1-17.
How to apply for Free State Parks, Beaches, and Parking
How to apply
Obtain a no-cost beach parking pass by presenting a current-year 100% VA disability certification to RI DEM.
Verified information & sources
Last verified: May 12, 2026
Official source: riparks.ri.gov
Compiled and fact-checked against the official source linked above. Benefit rules and dollar amounts change over time — always confirm current details at the official source before applying. A county Veterans Service Officer (VSO) is a free, accredited advocate who can review your eligibility and help you file at no cost.
Frequently asked questions about Free State Parks, Beaches, and Parking
Who qualifies for Free State Parks, Beaches, and Parking?▾
What VA disability rating do I need for Free State Parks, Beaches, and Parking?▾
How do I apply for Free State Parks, Beaches, and Parking?▾
Where can I verify Free State Parks, Beaches, and Parking?▾
Other Rhode Island Recreation & Parks
Free Golf at Goddard Memorial State Park
No greens fees at Goddard Memorial State Golf Course for veterans with documented disability (golf cart rental still applies).
$15-$40 per round, unlimited
Free Hunting and Fishing Licenses
No-cost permanent freshwater fishing, hunting, or combo license for veterans with 100% VA disability; saltwater fishing license exempt entirely.
Permanent (lifetime) license - $18-$35/year value
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