National Park Service Offers Free Admission for Founders Day
In celebration of Founders Day, the National Park Service is offering free admission to all national parks nationwide. This event commemorates the establishment of the National Park Service on August 25, 1916.
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, August 25, 2026 —
The National Park Service (NPS) is waiving entrance fees at all national parks across the country in observance of its 107th Founders Day. This annual event, which celebrates the establishment of the NPS on August 25, 1916, provides an opportunity for all Americans to visit and enjoy the nation’s natural and cultural treasures without charge.
The fee-free day applies to entrance fees only and does not cover other standard fees such as camping, reservation permits, or concessionaire-operated tours. Visitors planning to stay overnight in campgrounds or require special permits for certain activities should check the specific park’s website for details on applicable charges.
Founders Day marks a significant milestone for the organization, which was created by an act of Congress and signed into law by President Woodrow Wilson. The NPS has since been entrusted with the stewardship of over 400 sites, including national parks, national monuments, national historic sites, and national seashores, preserving them for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations.
The free admission initiative aims to encourage public engagement with the national park system and highlight the importance of conservation. Many parks are expected to see an increase in visitor numbers on this day, offering a chance for both seasoned park-goers and newcomers to experience the diverse landscapes and historical significance preserved within the park system.
Established in 1916, the National Park Service protects a wide array of natural wonders, from the geysers of Yellowstone to the canyons of Zion, as well as significant historical and cultural sites that tell the story of America. The Founders Day celebration serves as a reminder of the ongoing mission to protect these invaluable resources.
Story summarized from the original created by Scripps News Group on www.tampabay28.com, see more information here.
