While protected areas in the US are open to all, they are not exactly accessible to everyone except for certain times each year.
Anyone in America can visit the protected national parks in the nation, but they are not always accessible to everyone. An exception is a small number of times each year when the National Park Service waives entrance fees at each site across the country.
When can you visit the national parks for free?
Earlier in December, the National Park Service announced six free entrance days for 2021. These are as follows:
• January 18 (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day)
• April 17 (the first day of National Park Week)
• August 4 (the one-year anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act)
• August 25 (the birthday of the NPS)
• September 25 (National Public Lands Day)
• November 11 (Veterans Day)
Which US National Park Is The Most Convenient For You?
The US National Parks have something to suit everyone’s tastes. Whether you just want to enjoy a scenic view, or are an avid explorer, hiker, or mountaineer, there is something perfect for you. The following is a brief introduction to the various National Park Service sites across the US.
In total, there are 423 National Park Service sites across America, with representation in each state and territory, including the District of Columbia. Approximately one-third of the sites charge an entrance fee. The fee varies and can be anything from $5 to $35. According to the National Parks Service, some 327 million people passed through the parks’ gates during 2019.
In a press release, the counselor to the secretary Margaret Everson said that each fee-free day celebrates or commemorates a significant event. She said that, throughout the country, each national park offers a variety of opportunities for people to get out into nature.
Each park also offers the chance to connect with our common heritage and experience the many benefits that come from spending time in the outdoors. Everson added that, hopefully, the fee-free days will encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunity and spend some time in their nearest national parks. What better activity can there be during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic?
Some Qualify For Free Access Year-Round
Naturally, some do qualify for free access to the parks all year round. Active-duty military personnel isn’t required to pay to enter the national parks. On top of this, in November 2020, veterans and gold star families were granted a free lifetime pass to all federal lands managed by the Department of the Interior.
Youngsters Also Get Benefits
However, it isn’t just active military and veterans who have the opportunity. Younger people can get in free as well. This is part of the Every Kid Outdoors program, where fourth-graders receive a pass that is good for one year. The pass is good for every park in the NPS system. On top of this, in 2021, fifth-graders will also get the opportunity. This is to be granted as a “reprieve” due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Find out more about the national parks and how to enjoy free entry on the official website for the National Parks Service.