Each year, the National Park system throws open its gates for a few days and spreads the good word by admitting everyone without charging entry fees. It's a great way for low-income families, students, and seniors to experience the parks, and hundreds of thousands of Americans take advantage of the invitation annually.
The Department of the Interior has announced the free days for 2018—and they've been decimated. From 16 free days two years ago, the number has been slashed to just 4 now.
- January 15: Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- April 21: First day of National Park Week
- September 22: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
Last year, nine days were granted for free, including a few important holiday weekends. In 2016—the year of the National Park Service's centennial—16 days were open to all, including all of National Park Week.