On April 20, visitors will be able to enter national parks for free to celebrate the start of National Park Week, which runs from April 20 to April 28. The National Park Service oversees 429 park sites in the U.S., including 63 national parks and various other types of sites such as national monuments, battlefields, and historic sites. While most parks offer free entrance all the time, 108 parks charge entrance fees ranging from $20 to $35 per vehicle, like Grand Canyon, Zion, and Yellowstone national parks. On April 20, these fees will be waived.
In addition to April 20, there are five other days in 2024 when entrance to all national parks is free, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday, Juneteenth, the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act, National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day. However, some parks may still require additional reservations for entry. For example, Yosemite National Park in California requires reservations to drive into the park during peak hours on many days, including holidays and weekends between April 13 and June 30, and everyday from July 1 through August 16. These reservations cost $2, are nonrefundable, and are valid for three consecutive days.
While entrance to national parks may be free on certain days, visitors should be aware of potential additional fees for reservations. It may be financially beneficial for visitors to purchase an annual national park pass, which costs $80 and grants unlimited entrance to national parks and federal recreation areas. Some groups may qualify for reduced-price or free annual passes, making it a more cost-effective option for those who plan to visit multiple parks in one trip. It is essential for visitors to consider their trip itinerary and do the math to determine whether purchasing an annual pass is a better option.
Some national parks may charge entrance fees on certain days, even during designated free entrance days. Therefore, visitors should check the specific park they plan to visit to determine whether additional reservations or fees are required. By being prepared and informed about park fee structures and reservation requirements, visitors can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience when exploring the diverse and scenic national park sites across the U.S.
