The public is invited to share their love of the outdoors with a child Saturday during Kids to Parks Day, a national day of outdoor play designed to connect kids and families with local, state and national parks.

Gov. Eric Holcomb declared the day as Kids to Parks Day in Indiana and issued a proclamation acknowledging the important initiative to “encourage kids and empower families to get outdoors and visit America’s parks.”

The day is a chance for children to learn about park stewardship, outdoor recreation and natural and cultural history. It also is designed to help foster an appreciation for public lands in the next generation.

Special events are taking place at state parks, and here are some opportunities to engage children:

-Find planned events and special activities related to Kids to Parks Day at on.in.gov/instateparksevents.

-Check out the Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights with 11 suggested outdoor activities every kid should do. Complete all 11 to become a Hoosier Outdoor Child. See childrenplayoutdoors.dnr.in.gov.

-Get started on Hoosier Quest to earn patches and pins at on.in.gov/hoosierquest.

-Check out the state parks kids webpage at dnr.in.gov/kids for more ideas.

You also share may photos with the hashtag #KidstoParks or post them directly to the Indiana State Parks Facebook page at facebook.com/INdnrstateparksandreservoirs.

The National Park Trust is sponsoring the day with support from America’s State Parks and the National Association of State Park Directors.