Every year, National Park Week brings an exciting opportunity to explore America’s breathtaking landscapes, and National Park Week events 2025 promise to be bigger and better than ever!
In 2025, parks across the country will host a variety of engaging events designed to connect visitors with the great outdoors. Expect interactive wildlife programs, cultural heritage celebrations, kid-friendly activities, and even special night sky viewings. No matter your interests, National Park Week events 2025 will offer something for everyone. Read on to discover the best ways to participate and make the most of this incredible celebration of America’s natural treasures!
Contents
What is National Park Week?
National Park Week is a nine-day celebration dedicated to honoring the natural beauty and ecological importance of the country’s national parks. With over 400 national parks across the U.S., some are so vast that they stretch across multiple states. These protected areas offer a rare chance to connect with nature in its purest form, largely untouched by human influence.
As wildlands worldwide continue to disappear, national parks play a crucial role in preserving ecosystems, providing a safe haven where plants and wildlife can thrive without disruption.
Calendar for Free Admission to National Parks on National Park Week
In 2025, all National Park Service sites that typically require an entrance fee will offer free admission on select days. However, keep in mind that other fees, such as timed entry or reservation fees, may still apply.
These fee-free days are a fantastic opportunity for everyone to explore and appreciate the breathtaking landscapes and rich history of our national parks.
Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free days in 2025:
- January 9 – National Day of Mourning for President James Earl Carter Jr.
- January 20 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- April 19 – First day of National Park Week
- June 19 – Juneteenth National Independence Day
- August 4 – Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
- September 27 – National Public Lands Day
- November 11 – Veterans Day
Take advantage of these special days to experience the incredible landscapes, wildlife, and history that national parks have to offer!
>> Read More: National Park Week 2025 Visitor Stats: Most Visited National Park?
Expected Schedule of National Park Week Events 2025
National Park Week events 2025 will take place from April 19 to April 27. Here is a detailed schedule of themed days and events:
Kickoff Celebration
- Date: April 19, 2025
- Event: Free Admission Day
To kick off National Park Week events 2025, all national parks will offer free entrance, giving visitors a chance to explore these incredible sites at no cost.
As part of the festivities, events like the Forest Walk: Prairie Creek at Redwood National and State Parks will be available, providing a family-friendly opportunity to immerse oneself in the beauty of the towering redwoods.
Junior Ranger Day
- Date: April 27, 2025
- Event: Junior Ranger Activities
As part of National Park Week events 2025, parks will offer engaging activities for children to earn their Junior Ranger badges, fostering a sense of environmental stewardship and encouraging exploration. Visitors of all ages can take part in Junior Ranger programs, gaining insights into park conservation while collecting badges as a reward for their participation.
Military Appreciation Day
While National Park Week events 2025 do not have a specific day dedicated to veterans, they are encouraged to visit and explore national parks year-round. As a special recognition, all veterans can enjoy free park entry on November 11, 2025 (Veterans Day), making it a great opportunity to experience the beauty and history of these protected landscapes.
Volunteer Day
While there isn’t a specific “Volunteer Day” designated during National Park Week, the entire week provides ample opportunities for volunteerism. Individuals interested in contributing can participate in activities such as trail maintenance, habitat restoration, and educational programs. These efforts are crucial in preserving the natural beauty and integrity of our national parks.
For those seeking a dedicated day for volunteer activities, National Public Lands Day is observed annually on the fourth Saturday of September. In 2025, this falls on September 27. This event is recognized as one of America’s largest single-day volunteer efforts, with many national parks organizing projects like planting native species and park clean-ups.
To find specific volunteer opportunities during National Park Week events 2025 or on National Public Lands Day, it’s advisable to visit the official National Park Service website or contact individual parks directly.
History & Culture Day
“History & Culture Day” has not been officially designated in past National Park Week celebrations, many parks offer events and programs throughout the week that emphasize their historical and cultural significance. These activities often include guided tours, educational workshops, and special exhibits that delve into the rich heritage preserved within the parks.
Outdoor Adventure Day
On April 23, 2025, Channel Islands National Park is scheduled to host Guided Hikes on the Islands from 10:00 to 11:00 AM. This trip is part of the National Park Week events 2025.
These hikes are typically led by national park rangers, volunteers, or naturalists associated with concessionaires. The specific locations, distances, and departure times of these guided hikes will be announced upon your arrival during the visitor orientation. Additionally, downloading the Channel Islands National Park app before your visit is recommended, as it contains valuable information and can be used offline during your adventure.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consider contacting the park directly or visiting the official Channel Islands National Park website.
Climate & Sustainability Awareness Day
- Date: April 22, 2025 (Earth Day)
In 2025, Earth Day will be observed on Tuesday, April 22. While specific events for this date have yet to be announced, it is anticipated that numerous activities and initiatives will take place worldwide, including:
- Community Clean-ups: Local groups organizing efforts to clean parks, beaches, and urban areas.
- Educational Workshops: Sessions focusing on sustainability practices, conservation, and climate change awareness.
- Tree Planting Drives: Initiatives aimed at reforestation and enhancing green spaces in urban settings.
- Environmental Marches and Rallies: Public demonstrations advocating for stronger environmental policies and actions.
Must-Visit Parks for National Park Week Events 2025
Here are some national parks that you should try to experience during National Park Week. These are parks that I have compiled from my own experience as well as opinions from people who love to explore.
- Yellowstone National Park – Ranger-led wildlife tours and geology walks.
- Grand Canyon National Park – Special photography workshops and sunset hikes.
- Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Guided wildflower walks and Appalachian history talks.
- Yosemite National Park – Rock climbing clinics and cultural heritage presentations.
- Everglades National Park – Kayaking and eco-tourism activities.
Conclusion
As National Park Week Events 2025 come to a close, it’s clear that this celebration is more than just a chance to explore the great outdoors, it’s an opportunity to connect with nature, learn about conservation, and create unforgettable memories with family and friends.
But the adventure doesn’t have to end here! National parks are open year-round, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. So, if this year’s events inspired you, start planning your next visit, support park conservation efforts, and keep the spirit of National Park Week alive all year long!
