Discover how to access national parks for free in 2024

There’s nothing quite like exploring the stunning national parks across the U.S. — especially when you can do it for free.

The National Park Service has announced six fee-free days in 2024 for all national parks nationwide. On these designated days, you can enter the parks without paying the usual fees, which can range from about $3 per person to $35 per vehicle. While activities like camping, boat launches, special tours, and transportation still incur charges, these free admission days offer a wonderful chance to experience some of the most breathtaking locations in the country when finances are tight.

Out of the 425 national park sites, over 300 are free to enter, while 109 do require an entrance fee. Although national parks are generally budget-friendly and the fees help maintain the parks, costs can accumulate — particularly if you plan to stay overnight or visit multiple parks in one trip.

Ultimately, the NPS provides these free days to inspire more people to venture outdoors and appreciate the country's most beautiful landscapes.

Explore FindYourPark.com (or EncuentraTuParque.com) for suggestions on nearby parks to visit.

Before your visit, consider calling the national park's visitor center to inquire about special activities scheduled for the fee-free days, discover which areas are best for avoiding crowds, and get tips on parking or public transportation options to reach the park.

Here’s everything you need to know for planning your visit during one of this year’s free national park days.

What are the free national park days in 2024?

This year, there are six days when all visitors can enter national parks for free:

• Jan. 15 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• April 20 – First Day of National Park Week
• June 19 – Juneteenth
• Aug. 4 – Great American Outdoors Day
• Sept. 28 – National Public Lands Day
• Nov. 11 – Veterans Day

Additional ways to explore national parks for free

Alongside fee-free days, some visitors might qualify for complimentary annual or lifetime passes that waive entrance fees and standard day-use charges at U.S. national parks.

The pass allows entry for the holder and all passengers in a personal vehicle (at sites with vehicle fees) or for the holder plus up to three adults (aged 16 and older) at sites with individual charges. Children aged 15 or younger are admitted free at parks that charge per person.

Military Annual Pass

Active U.S. military personnel and their dependents, as well as members of the Reserve and National Guard, can request a complimentary military annual pass. You can apply for the pass online or in person at designated federal recreation sites.

Military Lifetime Pass

With a Military Lifetime Pass, Gold Star families and U.S. military veterans can enjoy complimentary entry to national parks. You can apply for the pass online or in person at specific federal recreation sites.

4th Grade Pass

U.S. fourth graders, including those who are home-schooled or learning independently at age 10, can request a free pass that remains valid for their fourth-grade school year and the following summer (September-August). To obtain the pass, you need to print a voucher from the Every Kid Outdoors website.

Bring the printed voucher to any federal recreation site that charges a fee, and you can exchange it for your official Annual 4th Grade Pass. This pass also allows free admission for all children under 16 and up to three adults.

Access Pass

The Access Pass is offered to U.S. citizens or permanent residents who have permanent disabilities. You can apply for this pass in person, online, or by mail. The Access Pass is a lifetime pass that provides free entry and discounts on certain amenity fees, including camping, swimming, interpretive services, and boat launches.

Volunteer Pass

Individuals who have volunteered for 250 service hours with federal agencies that are part of the Interagency Pass program can apply for an annual Volunteer Pass. Those eligible should reach out to their volunteer coordinator for further information.

Bottom line

With all national parks offering free entry on six specific days throughout 2024, it's an excellent opportunity to start planning how to make the most of these days. You can find the complete list of participating parks and national monuments here.