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National Park Free Days 2026: All 10 Fee-Free Dates

By The Green Adventures · Updated · How we check

On 10 days in 2026 the National Park Service waives entrance fees at every site that normally charges one. New this year: the free days are for U.S. citizens and residents only.

The 2026 dates

Date Occasion
Monday, February 16 Presidents Day
Monday, May 25 Memorial Day
Sunday, June 14 Flag Day
Friday to Sunday, July 3 to 5 Independence Day weekend
Tuesday, August 25 National Park Service birthday
Thursday, September 17 Constitution Day
Tuesday, October 27 Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday
Wednesday, November 11 Veterans Day

That is 10 days counting the three-day July weekend. Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth, free days in 2025, are not on the 2026 list.

What is free

Only the entrance fee. Camping, tours, timed entry reservations and parking or shuttle fees still apply, and reservation systems still run. 23 national parks never charge an entrance fee: see the free national parks.

Sources

Sources last checked 1 November 2026.

Frequently asked questions

When are the free national park days in 2026?

February 16, May 25, June 14, July 3 to 5, August 25, September 17, October 27 and November 11.

Are free days for everyone?

From 2026, only for U.S. citizens and residents.

Is Veterans Day free at national parks?

Yes, November 11, 2026 is a fee-free day.

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