The National Park Services (NPS) is celebrating its 105th birthday on Aug. 25, and admission to the national parks on Wednesday is free.
National parks across the country will also be hosting in-park programs and virtual experiences, according to an NPS press release. The calendar of events is available on the NPS website.
“In honor of our 105th birthday, join us for a month-long celebration in August with a theme Park Scrapbooks,” the release said. “Early park visitors sent postcards, captured photographs and created scrapbooks to preserve memories and share with others.”
The parks are also waiving the entrance fee on Sept. 25 (National Public Lands Day) and Nov. 11 (Veterans Day).
“Come experience the national parks,” the release said. “On six days in 2021, all National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone. Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free dates in 2021.”
The entrance fee waiver for the above-stated dates does not include amenity or user fees for activities such as camping, boat launches, transportation or special tours. On regular days, visitors may also want to consider getting the annual $80 America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, which offers unlimited access to over 2,000 federal recreation areas, including all national parks.
The public is also advised to check the operating hours of the park of their choice prior to visiting the site as well as safety protocols including face masks requirements.
President Woodrow Wilson signed the National Park Service Act on Aug. 25, 1916, thereby creating the National Park Service.
