Spending time outside in nature is synonymous with summertime, and to ensure Americans enjoy it to the fullest, the National Park Service is offering free admission to any of its parks for one day, in celebration of Great American Outdoors Day.
The NPS created this free park entrance day on Aug. 4 to celebrate the fifth anniversary of the enactment of the Great American Outdoors Act. The legislation, described as "the single largest investment in public lands in U.S. history," was signed into law on Aug. 4, 2020, according to the Department of the Interior.
"The Great American Outdoors Act ... is a historic investment in the protection and sustainment of our public lands and Bureau of Indian Education (BIE)-funded schools. GAOA established the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund (GAOA LRF) to address overdue maintenance needs," the DOI states on its website.
It adds, "By addressing the maintenance backlog, we help ensure that visitors and staff are safe and comfortable as they access our national parks, public lands and roads, national wildlife refuges, and BIE-funded schools."
While many national parks are typically free to visit, some require entry passes or fees, according to the NPS website. Busier parks may also require a reservation.
However, on Monday, Aug. 4, to celebrate Great American Outdoors Day, the National Park Service is offering free admission to all parks, including those that typically require an entry fee.
"Entrance fees will not be charged on August 4, 2025, in celebration of the Great American Outdoors Act's anniversary. Everyone is encouraged to visit parks to experience the benefits of GAOA projects," the NPS states.
If you're interested in taking advantage of the free entry day, grab your hiking shoes, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles, and click here to search for a park near you to visit on Aug. 4.
