National Parks Will Be Free Day

A family hiking through a lush, green forest, wearing hiking boots and carrying binoculars, surrounded by towering trees.. — National parks will be free day illustration

Hey there nature enthusiasts! Get ready to lace up your hiking boots and grab your binoculars because it's National Parks Will Be Free Day!

When is Parks Will Be Free Day?

It's national parks will be free day on the 15th January.

A Day to Embrace the Great Outdoors

On this special day, nature lovers across the country come together to celebrate the beauty and wonder of our national parks. Established to promote outdoor exploration and appreciation, National Parks Will Be Free Day allows everyone to experience the breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history that our national parks have to offer, without any pesky entrance fees.

Whether you're an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, National Parks Will Be Free Day provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the great outdoors. From towering redwoods and majestic waterfalls to stunning canyons and serene lakes, our national parks are home to some of the most stunning natural wonders on Earth.

So pack a picnic, gather your loved ones, and hit the trails to enjoy a day of adventure, serenity, and breathtaking beauty!

The Internet History of National Parks Will Be Free Day

This national day was born out of a desire to make our national parks more accessible to everyone. As more and more people turned to the internet for information and inspiration, the idea of a day where entrance fees would be waived gained traction. And thus, National Parks Will Be Free Day was born!

The initial spark for this day came from a viral social media post in 2016, urging people to spend a day appreciating the wonders of our national parks without the burden of entrance fees. The internet took notice and soon enough, the idea spread like wildfire. People eagerly shared their own national park experiences, encouraged others to visit, and pledged to participate on this special day.

In 2018, National Parks Will Be Free Day truly made its mark on the internet. With over 102 online mentions, it became a trending topic on social media platforms. People shared stunning pictures, funny anecdotes, and helpful tips for fellow park explorers. This outpouring of love and enthusiasm for our national parks was truly heartwarming and inspiring.

Did You Know?

The first national park established in the United States was Yellowstone National Park, which was signed into law by President Ulysses S. Grant on March 1, 1872. Spanning parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho, Yellowstone is renowned for its geothermal wonders, including the famous Old Faithful geyser.

History behind the term 'Parks Will Be Free'

1916

The Birth of the National Park Service

In the year 1916, the National Park Service was established by President Woodrow Wilson. The main purpose of the National Park Service was to oversee and manage the national parks, monuments, and reserves in the United States. This marked a significant milestone in the conservation and preservation efforts of the country's natural and cultural heritage.

1972

National Park Fee System Introduced

In 1972, the United States introduced a fee system for entrance into national parks. Visitors were required to pay a fee to access the parks, which went towards supporting their maintenance and improvement. This fee system aimed to ensure the sustainability and preservation of these treasured locations for future generations.

2005

National Park Service Centennial Initiative

The year 2005 marked the launch of the National Park Service Centennial Initiative. This initiative aimed to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service by enhancing the visitor experience, preserving important historical sites, and expanding educational programs. As part of this initiative, various projects were undertaken to improve the accessibility and enjoyment of national parks.

2020

Parks Will Be Free Initiative

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, there was a growing need for people to reconnect with nature while maintaining social distancing. To address this, several national parks around the world implemented the 'Parks Will Be Free' initiative. Parks such as Yellowstone National Park and Yosemite National Park temporarily waived entrance fees to encourage people to explore the great outdoors safely. This initiative provided individuals and families with an opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature during challenging times.

Did you know?

The first national park established in the United States was Yellowstone National Park, signed into law by President Ulysses S. Grant on March 1, 1872.