NPS Announces Eight Fee-Free Days for 2026

The National Park Service has announced eight fee-free days for 2026, allowing U.S. citizens and legal residents to enter participating national parks without paying entrance fees on select federal holidays. The dates, which replace some previous observances, aim to encourage public access to the country's natural landmarks amid rising admission costs that can exceed $50 per vehicle at many sites.

The 2026 schedule includes February 16 for Presidents Day, also known as Washington's Birthday; May 25 for Memorial Day; June 14 for Flag Day; July 3 through 5 for the Independence Day weekend; August 25 marking the 110th anniversary of the National Park Service; September 17 for Constitution Day; October 27 for Theodore Roosevelt's birthday; and November 11 for Veterans Day. Notably, free entry on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, January 19, and Juneteenth, June 19, has been discontinued for 2026. In addition, Flag Day has been added to the list.

This adjustment limits free access to U.S. citizens and legal residents only. International visitors will continue to pay standard or increased fees on these days, according to park service guidelines. No advance registration is required for the...