Explore the Wonders of National Parks: Free Entry Days in 2025
The USA’s national parks offer some of the most breathtaking adventures across the country. Fortunately, in 2025, these incredible parks will welcome visitors for free on six specific days, making it the perfect time to explore nature’s magnificence.
There are over 400 National Park Service (NPS) sites across the United States, each showcasing the unique beauty of its region. While many parks are free to enter all year, some of the well-known destinations—like Yosemite and Joshua Tree—do charge an entrance fee. For instance, the cost to enter Yosemite is $35 per vehicle for a seven-day pass, and $20 per adult if arriving on foot, bike, or horseback.
The National Park Service’s 2025 Free Dates
- January 15: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- April 20: First day of National Park Week
- June 19: Juneteenth
- August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
- September 28: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
Planning Your Visit: Reservations and Tips
Given the increasing popularity of US national parks, overcrowding and its accompanying issues have become prevalent. These include trail erosion, littering, and increased wait times, prompting many parks to implement reservation and timed entry systems. For example, Yosemite requires reservations for many days, particularly during peak events like the famous Horsetail Fall ‘firefall’. Similarly, Arches National Park will require timed-entry reservations from April through October, with these slots typically becoming available three months in advance.
Consequently, it is highly advisable to check the NPS website for any updates or requirements regarding park access before your visit.
Moreover, if you’re looking to avoid the rush of visitors on free-entry days, consider exploring some lesser-known national parks that offer equally breathtaking experiences without the crowds.
For further insights into the expansive range of national parks throughout the USA, visiting the National Park Service website is recommended for comprehensive information and resources.
Stay attuned to nature and enjoy the stunning landscapes that national parks have to offer, especially on these designated free days in 2024!
