As kids we often visited Rocky Mountain National Park and hiked its many trails and the trails nearby. We picnicked, looked for wildlife, and drove the winding roads taking in the beauty. I learned to love our national parks. Twenty plus years later I look back on these memories with a smile and strive to create these memories for my own children.

But park entry isn’t always cheap…not to worry!


The national park service is offering 10 free national park entry days this year. All national parks that normally charge an entrance fee will be free on these dates.

But it’s not just “national parks”. It applies to “national” monuments, recreation areas and more. If it has “national” in the name, and is operated by the park service, then it is free on these dates. There are more than 400 parks in the system!

If you want to verify that your local “national” park (monument, are, etc.) is participating, you can go here and check the list.

Four of these free days are in April during National Park Week. Be sure to stop by their website and see what special events your local national park is having during this week.

Free National Park Entry Dates for 2017

  • January 16: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
  • February 20: Presidents’ Day
  • April 15-16 and 22-23: Weekends of National Park Week
  • August 25: National Park Service Birthday
  • September 30: National Public Lands Day
  • November 11-12: Veterans Day Weekend

How about you? What is your favorite “national” park?

Looking for other free outdoor opportunities? Check out our Free Fishing Days page.

Categories: Hiking Places