Discover the 2025 National Park FREE Days: Plan Your Adventure

Standing at the rim of the Grand Canyon, hiking through the lush forests of Olympic National Park, or gazing up at the majestic peaks of the Rockies—all yours, without spending a dime on entry. Yes, that means FREE! Sounds amazing, right? In 2025, the National Park Service (NPS) is offering six free entrance days, giving everyone the perfect chance to explore some of America’s most stunning national parks without the usual entry fee. Here's what you need to know.

2025 Free Entrance Days:

• 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

Why 2025 National Park Free Days Are a Must:

While most national parks are free all year, roughly 100 parks, including big names like Yellowstone, Yosemite, Zion, Acadia, and Glacier National Park, charge entrance fees. These fees help fund essential maintenance, infrastructure improvements, and visitor services. In fact, about 80% of the revenue stays within the park where it was collected, ensuring that future visitors can continue to enjoy these incredible natural and cultural landmarks. For example, visiting Grand Canyon National Park typically costs $35 per vehicle—but on free entrance days, that fee vanishes! These special days are your chance to experience breathtaking landscapes and historic landmarks at no cost.

Yellowstone National Park

Zion National Park

Arcadia National Park

Additional Free Entrance Days:

While the NPS has designated six fee-free days in 2025, other federal agencies managing public lands also offer free entrance days. For instance, the U.S. Forest Service typically waives fees on specific days, such as National Get Outdoors Day.

Entrance Fees and Passes:

Approximately 100 out of over 400 national parks charge an entrance fee. Popular parks like Zion, Acadia, and Glacier National Park are among those with fees, making free entrance days an even better opportunity to explore these iconic destinations. For frequent visitors, the "America the Beautiful" Annual Pass is a cost-effective option, granting access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites for $80 per year.

Fee Allocation:

It's worth noting that entrance fees play a crucial role in park maintenance and visitor services. Approximately 80% of the collected fees remain in the park where they were collected, funding projects that enhance the visitor experience.

Essential Tools for Planning Your National Park Visit in 2025:

The NPS offers a comprehensive app that provides offline access to park maps, amenities, alerts, event notifications, and trail difficulty ratings, which can be invaluable during your visit.
IPhone Android

Tips for Planning Your Visit:

1. Choose Your Park: With over 400 national parks, monuments, and historic sites, there’s something for everyone. Use Find your perfect national park on NPS.gov to explore options near you.

2. Know the Rules: Some parks require advance reservations for timed entry, camping, or lodging. Secure your spot early for popular destinations.

3. Gear Up: Pack essentials like water, sturdy shoes, and maps.

4. Flex Your Plans: Weather or unexpected closures? Many parks have visitor centers or scenic drives to explore instead.

5. Stay Safe: Always check for park updates on conditions and alerts before heading out.

Find Your Next Adventure:

From the geysers of Yellowstone to the canyons of Zion, the possibilities are endless. Start exploring with trusted resources:

• Find Your Park for park options.

• Entrance Passes to learn about fees and options for non-free days.

Don’t Miss Out!

Mark your calendar and take advantage of these free days. Whether it's catching the sunrise at Arches National Park, marveling at the geothermal wonders of Yellowstone, or taking a scenic drive through Shenandoah, these fee-free days are the perfect chance to explore iconic landscapes and hidden gems alike. Don’t forget to share this guide with fellow adventurers and start planning your fee-free park visits now! Whether you’re seeking a family outing, solo retreat, or unforgettable trip with friends, 2025’s free entrance days are the perfect opportunity to discover the beauty and history waiting in your backyard. Plan now, pack your gear, and get ready for a year full of adventure!

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