UNITED STATES – Heads up National Park lovers, all National Parks across the United States will be free to enter this Saturday, September 28, in celebration of National Public Lands Day. Yes, entry to national parks is free for all visitors on this day.
National Public Lands Day, always taking place on the fourth Saturday of September, is the largest annual single-day volunteer effort in the United States. It has been since 1994. Over 130 National Parks hosted volunteer events last year. This brought 7,600 volunteers and a total of 41,500 hours of service in support of these free days.
There are six Free Entrance Days throughout the year for the National Parks across the United States. September 28 is the second to last of 2024, with the last taking place on Veterans Day, November 11. On these days, any entrance fee typically charged to enter a National Park is waived. Other user fees, like amenity fees, camping fees, boating fees, etc, will not be waived.
Volunteer events for National Public Lands Day can be found here. While the National Park Service encourages participation if possible, they also simply encourage visiting a National Park for free. Simply enjoy some time outdoors. The opportunity allows national parks and their free access to shine as great community connectors.
“National Public Lands Day is more than a clean-up—it’s a chance to connect with new communities. It is an event that creates kinship among those working together for a common goal. It is also an opportunity to use America’s public lands for education, recreation, and overall physical and mental health.”
This year’s National Public Lands Day offers a unique opportunity to engage with America’s natural treasures. Volunteers can participate in activities like trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and litter cleanups. These efforts directly contribute to park preservation. They not only enhance park beauty but also protect ecosystems for wildlife and future visitors. For those unable to volunteer, exploring a park’s trails, vistas, or historical sites is a rewarding way to celebrate. The National Park Service emphasizes that these lands belong to all Americans. This fosters a sense of shared responsibility. Visiting a park can inspire a deeper appreciation for nature and history, boosting well-being. Families, friends, and solo adventurers can find activities suited to all ages and abilities. Options range from leisurely walks to ranger-led programs. With over 400 national park sites, there’s something nearby for everyone. The National Park Service also highlights the importance of sustainable practices, like leaving no trace. This ensures these lands remain pristine. Check the National Park Service website for specific park events and plan your visit to make the most of this fee-free day. Celebrate by connecting with nature and community on September 28!
These efforts not only enhance park beauty but also protect ecosystems for wildlife and future visitors. For those unable to volunteer, exploring a park’s trails, vistas, or historical sites is a rewarding way to celebrate. The National Park Service emphasizes that these lands belong to all Americans, fostering a sense of shared responsibility.
Visiting a park can inspire a deeper appreciation for nature and history, boosting well-being. Families, friends, and solo adventurers can find activities suited to all ages and abilities, from leisurely walks to ranger-led programs. With over 400 national park sites, there’s something nearby for everyone. The National Park Service also highlights the importance of sustainable practices, like leaving no trace, to ensure these lands remain pristine. Check the National Park Service website for specific park events and plan your visit to make the most of this fee-free day. Celebrate by connecting with nature and community on September 28!
