DES MOINES - The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is excited to announce May 2, 3 and 4 as Camping Kick-off Weekend. Campers using state parks during these days will receive a gift package that includes a camping coupon good for one night of camping at an electrical site, a free issue of Iowa Outdoors magazine, recipes, camping tips and more.

"We will be offering interpretive programs at each of our parks during that weekend, fishing will be good and hopefully the weather will be good so there should be something for everyone during Camping Kick-off Weekend," said Kevin Szcodronski, chief of the Iowa State Parks bureau.

Iowa has 53 state parks that allow camping. The camping coupon may be used at anytime after Camping Kickoff Weekend. Campers needing some of the add-on campsite amenities, such as full hookups or an equestrian site, may use the coupon but will need to pay the difference.

"This is a change from what we offered over the past few years," Szcodronski said. "By giving a coupon for a free night stay at one of our state parks, campers can come back for another visit at their convenience. Our campers are important to us and we want to show them we value their loyalty and want to continue to see them throughout the summer."

Campers will have to pay the appropriate site fees to camp during Camping Kick-off Weekend. Campsite reservations may be made online at www.reserveiaparks.com, or secured on a first come, first serve basis for a non-reservable site. For more information on state parks, visit the Iowa DNR website at www.iowadnr.gov.

For more information, contact Szcodronski at 515-281-8674.