Each year, the National Parks Service presents a series of FREE days. Plus this offer also works with National Monuments and other sites under NPS management. Which means there are a lot of awe-inspiring destinations available for exploration without cost! 

To ensure your chosen park is part of the program, refer to this list of participating parks. It’s important to note that while entrance fees are waived, specific fees such as those for cave tours are not covered under the free admission category.

National Parks Free Days in 2024.

January 20: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

April 19: Opening Day of National Park Week

June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day

August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act

September 27: National Public Lands Day

November 11: Veteran’s Day

Keep in mind that popular parks may be busy, so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider using one of the alternative passes listed below.

Are you aware that there are various ways to cut costs when exploring our national parks?

Annual Pass: $80. I have found that if I’m going to visit more than one National Park in a year, which I almost always do, this pass is worth it. PLUS you are supporting the National Parks System.

Military Annual Pass: Free for current US Military members and their dependents.

Military Lifetime Pass: FREE for US military veterans with a valid, veteran ID and Gold Star Families with a valid Gold Star Family Voucher 

Every Kid Outdoors Pass: Free for every current 4th grader from September – August of their school year. Read how your 4th grader can get this pass.

Senior Pass: There are actually two different passes for US citizens or permanent residents ages 62 or older.

$80 Lifetime Senior Pass

$20 Annual Senior Pass

Access Pass: Free lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. Applicants must provide documentation of permanent disability and residency or citizenship.

Volunteer Pass: Free for a year for volunteers who have volunteered 250 hours in one of the national sites.

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