National Park Week returns August 22–30, 2026, with a single fee-free day on August 25 at all National Park Service sites that normally charge entrance fees. The date marks two milestones simultaneously: the 110th birthday of the National Park Service, founded on August 25, 1916, and the America 250 national sesquicentennial celebration. Separately, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is waiving entrance fees for the entire month of August.
What “Fee-Free” Means
On August 25, the standard vehicle entrance fee — which ranges from $20 at smaller parks to $35 at high-demand destinations like the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Zion — is waived for all visitors. Annual pass holders are unaffected (your pass already covers entry), but travelers who have been delaying a visit specifically because of entrance costs have a one-day window to enter without paying.
The waiver covers entrance fees only. Camping reservations, permit fees, and special use charges still apply.
Planning for August 25
Book in advance: The Grand Canyon requires a timed entry reservation from May through October regardless of whether a fee is charged. Free entry on August 25 does not eliminate the reservation requirement — if you plan to drive in via the South Rim, reserve your timed entry on recreation.gov before the slot fills. The same applies to Arches National Park (permit required May–October), Glacier’s Going-to-the-Sun Road, and several other high-traffic parks.
Expect crowds: Fee-free days are consistently among the busiest of the year. Arrive before 8:00 a.m. at popular sites. Overflow parking at most canyon and mountain parks fills by mid-morning on peak-season weekends.
National Park Week Events (August 22–30)
Throughout the week, parks are hosting ranger-led programs, Junior Ranger pledge ceremonies, evening talks, and special exhibits tied to the America 250 theme: “Celebrate America’s Story.” Full event listings are available at nps.gov/planyourvisit/national-park-week.htm. Smaller, less-visited parks — including those in the National Monuments and National Recreation Area categories — often have the most engaging programming and the fewest crowds.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes: Free All August
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island is waiving its normal $35 vehicle fee through August 31 as part of the America 250 programme. The park’s current activity includes ongoing lava flows visible from designated viewing areas, making this a particularly worthwhile free visit. Standard overnight camping fees still apply.
Other Fee-Free Days in 2026
Beyond August 25, the NPS has designated four additional fee-free days for 2026: January 19 (MLK Day), April 19 (first day of National Park Week), September 27 (National Public Lands Day), and November 11 (Veterans Day). Our national parks guide has the full year’s schedule and practical tips for planning visits.