The National Park Service (NPS) is gearing up to welcome visitors in 2025 with six fee-free days, offering an opportunity to explore stunning landscapes, cultural landmarks, and historical sites across more than 400 national parks nationwide—without the cost of entry.
These designated days aim to make national parks more accessible, encouraging families, friends, and solo adventurers to discover the wonders of America’s natural and cultural heritage. It’s worth noting that the state’s National Park Service units, including Hot Springs National Park and the Buffalo National River, already offer free entrance year-round, with no additional fees to access these iconic sites.
The NPS recommends planning ahead for trips to any national park, especially on fee-free days, as these popular occasions often see increased visitation. It’s a great chance to experience the beauty and significance of these preserved spaces—whether for a weekend getaway or a day of outdoor exploration.
Mark your calendars, pack your gear, and get ready to embrace the adventure that awaits in 2025.
The 2025 free entrance days are:
- January 20 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- April 19 – First Day of National Park Week
- June 19 – Juneteenth National Independence Day
- August 4 – Great American Outdoors Act Signing Day
- September 27 – National Public Lands Day
- November 11 – Veterans Day
How to plan a National Park visit
- Where:
With over 400 national parks, monuments, and historic sites, there’s something for everyone. Visit NPS.gov/findapark to explore the park options nearest you. If you’re visiting a park that normally charges an entrance fee, review your entrance pass options before you arrive.
- When:
The National Park Service is waiving the entrance fee for parks on six days in 2025, so consider planning your visit then. Otherwise, pick a date that works for you to visit and keeping in mind seasonal changes, how much daylight you’ll need, and if you need to get to the park early in the day to get parking or take advantage of lower temperatures.
- How:
Some national parks require advanced reservations for camping, lodging, or timed entry. Research and book early to secure your spot, especially for popular parks.
- Pick the right activity for you:
Review the possible activities, including ranger-led programs, scenic hikes, tours, and more. Planning allows you to maximize your experience while balancing active days with relaxation. Consider your experience and skill level when picking your activity.
- Prepare for the unexpected:
Sometimes, our travel plans might change last minute or even during the hike. Do your research to know what else the park has to offer if you don’t end up being able to do what you planned that day. For example, if there’s more rain than you prepared for, visit the park museum or take a scenic drive. Make sure you check the park website or the NPS App for updated conditions, seasonal closures, and alerts.
- Bring the right gear:
Plan like a Park Ranger and pack essentials like water, appropriate clothing, and maps. You can download park maps for offline use from the NPS App so you can find your way even if there’s no Wi-Fi. Note that water might be hard to come by in some parks, so make sure you bring your own, especially if you’ll be outside for a while.
Free National Parks
Did you know that the majority of national parks across the U.S. are free to visit year-round? Of the 430+ parks managed by the National Park Service (NPS), only about 100 charge an entrance fee, making outdoor adventures more accessible than ever.
With at least one national park in every state, there’s always an opportunity to connect with nature, history, or culture close to home. To discover what’s nearby or plan a trip further afield, visit the NPS website at www.nps.gov/findapark. For those looking to make the most of their visit, the NPS Trip Planning Guide provides helpful tips to ensure a smooth and memorable experience.
As 2025 approaches, now is the perfect time to start planning your year of adventure. From pristine wilderness to historic landmarks, America’s national parks are ready to inspire your next journey.
