Make 2022 the year you explore more of the Alaska State Parks. It's a world-class parks system that includes lakes, rivers, campgrounds, public use cabins and much more.

Now that the calendar has flipped to the new year, don't forget to get your annual Alaska State Parks parking pass so you can get out and explore the parks system all year. The 2022 annual parking passes are once again $60, and are good for nearly every state park in Alaska. Due to the pandemic, some in-person purchase locations are closed, but you can still order the annual passes at the Alaska State Parks web site. Annual parking passes are convenient so you don't have to pay at kiosks every time you visit a state park property. The windshield sticker allows you to park for free, 365 days a year - it doesn't take too many visits for the annual pass to start paying for itself. Boat launch annual passes are also available for $150 a year.

Many Alaska State Parks sites can be reserved up to seven months in advance, which is a great way to make sure you get your favorite public-use cabin this summer. The reservation web site launched in 2021. Popular Mat-Su area Alaska State Parks such as Nancy Lake and Denali State Park are all on the reservation system. Since reservations can be made up to seven months in advance, it allows visitors to plan their camping trips well in advance and not have to worry if all the campgrounds are full.

Alaska State Parks are a great way to enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, fishing, hiking and camping.