Love national parks? There’s a holiday for that! Join the weeklong celebration of all things “national parks” happening August 22 to 30, 2026. Wrap up summer by coming out to explore nature and history, join ranger programs, earn your Junior Ranger badge, and more.
Tuesday, August 25, 2026, entrance fees are waived for US citizens and residents.
Come celebrate the National Park Service's 110th birthday.
This year's National Park Week theme is “Celebrate America’s Story” in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary. Come visit where many of America’s important stories are shared, in our national parks. Make your own stories exploring stunning natural landscapes, reflecting on our nation's inspiring history and rich culture, and enjoying the great outdoors.
Participating Colorado Parks & Landmarks:
- Bent's Old Fort National Historic Site
- Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park
- Colorado National Monument
- Dinosaur National Monument
- Florissant Fossil Beds National Monument
- Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve
- Hovenweep National Monument
- Mesa Verde National Park
- Rocky Mountain National Park
Check out the full list here.
Image designed by the National Park Service
2026 National Park Week Themed Days
- Saturday, August 22: Kickoff Saturday and Freedom 250 Grand Pix
- Sunday, August 23: Safety Sunday
- Monday, August 24: America in Motion Monday
- Tuesday, August 25: National Park Service 110th Birthday & Fee-Free Day
- Wednesday, August 26: Watch Wildlife Wednesday
- Thursday, August 27: Thankful Thursday
- Friday, August 28: Freedom Friday
- Saturday, August 29: Staff Saturday
- Sunday, August 30: Junior Ranger Day
National Junior Ranger Day:
Get the whole family involved in celebrating our beautiful outdoor spaces on Sunday, August 30th during National Junior Ranger Day.
The Junior Ranger Program is a great way to explore national parks, get some cool swag, and maybe even one of those coveted hats the rangers wear! Well...okay, yours might be made out of paper, but you'll still rock it! You'll also learn why national parks matter and how you can be a part of the team that helps keep parks healthy.
Find a park near you and ask the rangers about all the fun activities and special programs you can do to earn a Junior Ranger badge.
For even more National Junior Ranger Day fun, visit the NPS Kids Portal, learn about free 4th Grader access, access interactive and printable activities, and groove to Junior Ranger Radio.
