These are the official dates in 2026 when entrance fees are waived at national parks and many other NPS sites that normally charge a fee: NerdWallet
📅 Free National Park Days in 2026
| Date | Occasion / Why It’s Free |
|---|---|
| Feb. 16, 2026 | Presidents’ Day (Washington’s Birthday) 🇺🇸 NerdWallet |
| May 25, 2026 | Memorial Day 🌺 NerdWallet |
| June 14, 2026 | Flag Day / President’s Birthday 🇺🇸 NerdWallet |
| July 3–5, 2026 | Independence Day Weekend 🎆 NerdWallet |
| Aug. 25, 2026 | 110th Birthday of the National Park Service 🎂 NerdWallet |
| Sept. 17, 2026 | Constitution Day 📜 NerdWallet |
| Oct. 27, 2026 | Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday 🐻 NerdWallet |
| Nov. 11, 2026 | Veterans Day 🇺🇸 NerdWallet |
⛺ What “Free Entry” Means in 2026
✔ On these dates, entrance fees are waived at most national parks and fee-charging NPS sites for U.S. residents. NerdWallet
✔ Other charges — such as timed-entry reservations, parking fees, or guided tour fees — may still apply. NerdWallet
✔ Free entry typically applies to standard entrance fees only. NerdWallet
✔ Most sites that normally don’t charge entrance fees (many parks, monuments, and historic sites) are free year-round anyway. Wikipedia
🗺️ Tips for Planning Around Free Entry Days
Plan early: Many parks are busiest on free days, so reservations for timed entry (where required) can fill up quickly — even if the entrance fee is waived. NerdWallet
Check entry requirements: Some parks, like Yosemite and Zion, require reservations in peak season. Free entry doesn’t always waive reservation fees. NerdWallet
Annual vs single entry: If you plan multiple visits or want flexibility, consider an America the Beautiful pass — it covers all parks (entrance fees only) for a year. Note: the pass has a resident price and a higher nonresidential price starting in 2026.
