Best Free Things to Do in America’s National Parks
The national parks are America’s wild playground. Some may charge a nominal entry fee; however, once you’re in, they offer fantastic free adventures. Dive into a budget-friendly exploration of nature with this guide.
Vertical Hiking at Acadia
The 1.8-mile (3.2 km) Precipice Trail at Acadia National Park dramatically ascends the east face of Champlain Mountain, crossing super-narrow ledges with vertical climbs via ferrata-style rungs. Plan your visit: Nps.gov/acad; opening hours vary; $15 individual 7-day pass.
Wild Hot-Tubbing at Yellowstone
Located on the 45th parallel, Yellowstone National Park features the Boiling River, a unique bathing spot where hot springs flow into the Gardner River, creating perfect soaking conditions. Plan your visit: Nps.gov/yell; 24-hour access; $20 individual 7-day pass.
Flower Power in the Smokies
Experience a vibrant explosion of over 1,500 wildflowers during spring in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Engage in backcountry hiking and wild camping ($14 to $23 per night) amid the blooming ephemerals. Watch out for black bears. Plan your visit: Nps.gov/grsm; 24-hour access; free.
Snorkel Around a Fort at Dry Tortugas
Seventy miles (110 km) from Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park features Fort Jefferson, a haven for marine activity. Snorkel around the fort’s moat and sea wall, where vibrant fish, coral, and shipwrecks await. Plan your visit: Nps.gov/drto; 24-hour access; $5 7-day pass.
Waterfall Walking at Yosemite
The top short hike in the Sierra Nevada’s majestic Yosemite National Park spans 6.5 miles (10.4 km) and traverses the mist created by impressive cascades: Vernal Falls and Nevada Falls. Plan your visit: Nps.gov/yose; 24-hour access; $20 individual 7-day pass.
Encounter Bears at Katmai
One of the most thrilling experiences is spotting a large brown bear in the wild. Visit Brooks Camp at Katmai National Park in Alaska, where bears search for fish from July to September. Plan your visit: Nps.gov/katm; 24-hour access; free.
Moon-Walking at Great Basin
Just two hours from the vibrant lights of Vegas, the night sky at Great Basin National Park offers stunning visibility of up to five planets. Rangers host free lunar-lit night hikes during full moons in summer. Plan your visit: Nps.gov/grba; 24-hour access; free.
‘Hunt’ Bison at Theodore Roosevelt
Explore the badlands at Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota, named after the famed conservationist president. Seek out bison with your camera in hand. Plan your visit: Nps.gov/thro; 24-hour access; $15 individual 7-day pass.
Travel Through Space and Time at Chaco
As a dark-sky park, Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico boasts ancient Puebloan ruins, which align with the stars during equinoxes. Rangers offer free tours. Plan your visit: Nps.gov/chcu; 7 AM to sunset; $15 individual 7-day pass.
