National Park Fee Free Days 2026
Go Visit a National Park for Free!
The National Park Service has often been called “America’s Best Idea.
The first national park in America was Yellowstone National Park, established by an act of Congress on March 1, 1872, making it the first of its kind in the U.S. and the world, set aside to preserve its unique geothermal wonders and wildlife for public enjoyment.
There are 448 National Parks. Most of the sites managed by the National Park Service are free to visit, but some require an entrance pass.
You may also need a reservation at a few high-traffic sites.
Everyone needs to experience the national Parks! So, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone (other fees, including timed entry or reservation fees, may apply).
Purchase Ken Burns: The National Parks: America’s Best Idea
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Subscribe for free to receive new posts.106 National Parks Charge an Entrance Fee
342 National Parks Do Not charge an entrance fee
2026 Fee-Free Days
Mark your calendar for these entrance 2026 fee-free dates:
February 16: Presidents’ Day (Washington’s Birthday)
May 25: Memorial Day
June 14: Flag Day/President Trump’s birthday
July 3–5: Independence Day weekend
August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Service
September 17: Constitution Day
October 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday
November 11: Veterans Day
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NOTE: Beginning in 2026, free entrance on these days will be available only to US citizens and residents. Nonresidents will pay the regular entrance fee and any applicable nonresident fees.