The National Park Service came into being through the National Park Service Organic Act on August 25, 1916. To celebrate the work they have done over the last hundred years, they are offering 16 days of free admission at all National Parks Service sites that normally require entrance fees. These days will be a culmination of the joy the NPS has brought to so many travelers and a way to give back to their loyal visitors.
The free entry days are as follows:
- January 18 — Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- April 16 to 24 — National Park Week
- August 25 to 28 — National Park Service Centennial Birthday Weekend
- September 24 — National Public Lands Day
- November 11 — Veterans Day
National Park Week
While each of the days serve to celebrate the work of the NPS, there are special events planned in April for National Park Week, especially for younger visitors. On April 16, the parks will celebrate National Junior Ranger Day. Kids will be able to learn how the sites are run and work toward earning a junior ranger badge or becoming a Centennial Junior Ranger. April 22 is Earth Day, so the NPS is leading the nation in a string of service projects. Most of the parks will have volunteer opportunities on this day. You're sure to find one that is close to you. On April 23, the parks will be utilizing social media in their National Park Instameet. This is an opportunity for visitors to post photos and videos of themselves at a national park onto Instagram and other online platforms using a shared hashtag. Finally, April 24 is designated as Park Rx Day, with activities to promote healthy diets and exercise habits.
Update Your Bucket List
The free entry days are a great way to see parts of the country you’ve let sit on your bucket list for far too long. While you’re there, you can even help make the parks more beautiful for the next visitors and learn about all the work that goes into managing them. They are spread out throughout the year, so make sure you find a day that works for you and your family. You’ll be glad you did.
