photo by: Mike Yoder

Two bicyclists pedal through Clinton Lake State Park, Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2015.

Black Friday can be one of the most hectic days of the year, but the Kansas state parks want to change that.

Instead of waiting in line at a store, the parks are offering an opportunity for Kansas residents to visit a state park and experience the outdoors. Entry fees will be waived Friday at all 27 state parks, including Clinton State Park, as part of an “Opt Outside” event, said Michael Pearce, outdoor content manager for the Kansas tourism division.

The entry fee at Clinton State Park is normally $5 per vehicle, according to the park’s website.

Those who visit the park and post a selfie on social media with the #OptOutside hashtag are also entered into a chance to win a free night in a park cabin.

Some parks in Kansas are hosting specific events for the day. Those who are willing to drive a little bit can check out Turkey Trek, a slow bike ride through seven miles of trail from 10 a.m. to noon at Tuttle Creek State Park, just north of Manhattan.

Other events can be found on the Kansas tourism office website.

While Clinton State Park will not have any special events Friday, the park offers many activities, including hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, disc golf, archery and camping, among other activities, said Sherri Withers, administrative specialist for the park.

“We’re making sure people get outside and get some exercise, fresh air and work off that turkey,” she said.

This time of the year is also the prime chance to view bald eagles, ospreys and deer at most parks, Pearce said.

Opt Outside is a annual event created by the outdoor sporting goods store REI. Instead of opening for the busiest shopping day of the year, REI gave its staff the day off and encouraged people to spend the day in the wilderness.

In the first year of the event in 2015, REI said more than 1 million participated in the event, according to the company’s website.

The state’s parks want to continue the tradition through this event, encouraging Kansans to make use of the state parks just down the street, Pearce said.

“Kansas state parks want to help you spend that day getting some laid-back exercise, like leisurely hiking a well-maintained trail through some of Kansas prettiest scenery,” Pearce said. “Or, taking a slow guided bike ride near the shores of a gorgeous lake and through tall timber.”