National Park Week Begins With Free Entry Day

Faith Katunga
·2 min read
Person Painting under a Tree
Person Painting under a Tree

This Saturday marks the start of National Park Week, an exciting event for nature fans and adventurers. With the National Park Service (NPS) offering a day of free admission to various sites across the country, there’s no better opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the United States. The campaign aims to inspire people to discover the legacy protected within the more than 400 national parks open to the public.

A Week of Discovery and Celebration

Spanning from April 20 through April 28, National Park Week is about more than free entry. It’s a celebration highlighting how these parks contribute to society, from conservation and education to recreation and inspiration. Each day of the week is dedicated to a different theme, ensuring something for everyone, whether a seasoned park-goer or planning your first visit.

Themes for the week include Discovery, Volunteers, Earth Day, Innovation, Workforce Wednesday, Youth Engagement, Community Connections, Junior Ranger Day, and Arts in Parks. These themes reflect the diverse roles that parks play in our communities and the variety of experiences they offer.

Explore Various Parks at No Cost

Woman Relaxing in Yosemite National Park
Photo Credit: Stephen Leonardi

National Park Week’s sites include iconic parks like Yosemite, where admission costs up to $35 per vehicle or $20 per person. While Yosemite and other popular parks might require a reservation during peak times, the free entry day provides a chance to plan a visit without the entrance fee. Remember that while admission is free, some parks may charge for parking, specific facilities access, or activities such as camping and special tours.

Dates to Remember

For those who can’t make it this Saturday, there are additional dates throughout 2024 when the NPS will waive entrance fees, including:

  • June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day

  • August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act

  • September 28: National Public Lands Day

  • November 11: Veterans Day

These dates offer further opportunities to discover what the national parks offer without the cost of an entrance fee, making outdoor adventure more accessible to all. Visitors are encouraged to check online for potential timed entries on free days and to be mindful of park-specific guidelines and closures. For more information on National Park Week and to plan your visit, check out the official National Park Service website.