National Parks Free Entrance Days 2025 (Plan Your Visit)

There are seven National Parks free entrance days in 2025, which means you can explore select National Park Service sites without paying the entrance fee. These National Parks free entrance days 2025 are perfect for first-time visitors, budget-friendly family trips, or trying a new park you’ve been eyeing. Keep in mind that other costs may still apply (like timed-entry reservations, camping, tours, or parking), so plan ahead.

2025 Free Entrance Days in the National Parks

Mark your calendar for these National Parks free entrance days 2025 (entrance fees waived at participating parks):

• Thursday, January 9 — National Day of Mourning for President James Earl Carter Jr.
• Monday, January 20 — Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• Saturday, April 19 — First day of National Park Week
• Thursday, June 19 — Juneteenth National Independence Day
• Monday, August 4 — Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
• Saturday, September 27 — National Public Lands Day
• Tuesday, November 11 — Veterans Day

Note: Many NPS sites are always free, but icons like Yosemite, Grand Canyon, and Zion typically charge an entrance fee. On National Park free days, only the entrance fee is waived; other reservations and fees still apply.

How to Plan Your Free Day (Reservations & Tips)

Fee-free days are popular. A few pro tips to make your National Parks free entrance days 2025 trip smooth and frugal:

• Check if timed entry or vehicle reservations are required. Busy parks often require timed-entry windows. You’ll usually book them on Recreation.gov, even on free days.
• Arrive early or visit later in the day. Parking can fill by mid-morning. Consider sunrise or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
• Verify what’s waived (and what isn’t). The fee waiver covers entrance only—camping, tours, and parking typically still cost money.
• Check park alerts on NPS.gov for closures, construction, or weather advisories before you go.
• Pack smart. Water, snacks, layers, sun protection, and offline maps are your best friends in areas with poor service.

Check Reservations on Recreation.gov

Find a National Park Near You

From famous landscapes to lesser-known historical sites, there’s likely an NPS site closer than you think. Start your search here and build your route around the National Parks free entrance days 2025 you plan to use.

Find a Park on NPS.gov

Join the Adventure as a Junior Ranger

The Junior Ranger program connects kids and families with the stories, science, and stewardship behind every park. Complete activities, take the pledge, and earn a badge or keepsake at many sites—an especially fun add-on during free national park entrance days.

Learn About Junior Ranger Programs

Every Kid Outdoors: Free Year for 4th Graders

Fourth graders and their families can enjoy a full year of free access to hundreds of parks, lands, and waters. Kids ages 9–11 are primed to connect with nature and history—this pass makes it easy and affordable beyond the National Parks free entrance days 2025.

Get Your 4th-Grade Pass

Tip: Print the pass and bring it with you (electronic copies aren’t accepted). See details at EveryKidOutdoors.gov.

National Parks Free Entrance Days 2025 — FAQ

What are the National Parks free entrance days in 2025?

There are seven dates in 2025: Jan 9, Jan 20, Apr 19, Jun 19, Aug 4, Sep 27, and Nov 11. Entrance fees are waived at participating NPS sites on these days.

Do I still need a reservation on free days?

Often, yes. Popular parks may require timed-entry reservations to manage crowds—even on free days. Book them on Recreation.gov.

Are camping, tours, or parking free on fee-free days?

No. The fee waiver covers entrance fees only. Other fees generally still apply.

Is an annual pass worth it if I miss the free entrance days?

If you’ll visit multiple fee-charging sites this year, consider the America the Beautiful annual pass for ongoing savings.

More Frugal Travel Tips

• Dining Deals & Restaurant Freebies
• Travel Deals Hub

About StacyStacy Maines is the publisher of Fabulessly Frugal and a frugal travel enthusiast. She’s on a mission to help families save money while making lifelong memories in the great outdoors.