Free admission and events for National Park Week

Enjoy summer at one of 400+ National Parks during National Park Week, August 22-30, 2026.

You’ll enjoy free admission on August 25, 2026, so plan your trip to visit one of these great parks!

Many National Parks are just a car ride away.

You can plan your visit by what you want to do, or where you want to go, or check out the event calendar and check out the special programs, including digital programs, offered that week.

National Parks Week Schedule

See links and full details on the website

National Volunteer Month

April 2026
Whether online, at the visitor center, or on the trail, doing good in parks comes in many forms, and we recognize and celebrate them all. Sign up to volunteer and/or Thank a volunteer. Are you visiting a national park site during National Volunteer Week? Say thank you to the volunteers you meet. Details here. 

Earth Day events

mid-April 2026
The National Park Service provides opportunities for everyone to discover and enjoy the physical and psychological benefits that come with spending time outdoors.

Join us on social media as we explore the earth sciences and stewardship. Share your Earth Day experiences and favorite memories with parks using #EarthDay and #NationalParkWeek.

National Junior Ranger Day

Saturday, August 22, 2026
No matter what age you are, you are invited to explore, learn, and protect on National Junior Ranger Day. You can participate in the Junior Ranger program year-round and join this one-day celebration that is part of the annual National Park Week.

Fee-Free Entrance Day

Saturday, August 25, 2026
Kick off National Park Week with no entrance fees at national parks!

Get out and explore a park near you this year!

Specials and events for Earth Day and Arbor Day in Columbus

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Free days at U.S. national parks + Free National Parks Pass for 4th grade families