5 Days to Enter National Parks for Free in 2022

Many RV enthusiasts are also nature lovers and outdoorsy folks, who enjoy getting outside to experience their surroundings. As such, visiting national parks is typically on the to-do list for RVers. And for good reason: Founded in 1916, the National Parks Service operates more than 400 parks across the country and offers guests an opportunity to refresh body, mind and spirit while discovering our nation’s natural beauty.

And what better way to achieve that than to do it for free? In 2022, the National Parks Service is offering five fee-free days at all the parks that typically charge an entrance fee. These days include:

• Monday, January 17 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 
• Saturday, April 16 – First Day of National Park Week 
• Thursday, August 4 – Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act 
• Saturday, September 24 – National Public Lands Day 
• Friday, November 11 – Veterans Day 

These days are an excellent time to explore parks and sites you’ve never been to before at no cost. However, it’s important to note that the entrance fee waiver for fee-free days does not cover fees for use of certain amenities or activities such as camping, boat launches, transportation, or special tours. 

What Can You Do in a National Park?

There’s lots of things you can do when you visit national parks, which range from scenic trails to historic landmarks and more. Depending on the type and location of the national park you’re visiting, you can:

• Enjoy a relaxing picnic or embark on an exciting white-water adventure 
• Check out demonstrations, programs, and reenactments at cultural sites 
• Learn about and remember notable people and their contributions to society at historical sites
• View and appreciate wildlife in their natural habitats and surroundings 
• See geological wonders that detail the history of the earth and acts of nature 

What’s more, you can just enjoy walking, fishing, stargazing, swimming, paddling, and even camping. If you’re interested in RV camping at a national park, you’ll want to do your research and make reservations well in advance.

If visiting national parks is a passion for you or a loved one, then you can never go wrong buying or gifting an America the Beautiful annual park pass. This pass gives the passholder access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas for an entire year and costs $80. In addition, there are free or discounted pass rates available for senior citizens, current members of the military, families of fourth-grade students, and disabled citizens. To buy a pass, visit the USGS online store.

Are you a fan of national parks? Which ones are your favorites? Let us know in the comments or contact us today!