National Parks Week Starts Saturday, April 22

National Parks Week is a week dedicated to honoring and celebrating some of America’s most treasured and breathtaking destinations–our national parks. Organized by the National Park Service and the National Park Foundation, and running from April 22 to 30, 2023, National Parks Week encourages Americans to get out and explore the natural beauty and splendor available to us in our country, and even volunteer parks. In addition, it’s an opportunity to show appreciation for the Department of the Interior and National Park Service’s dedicated stewardship of the parks. 

Founded in 1916, the National Parks Service operates more than 400 parks across the country. With the goal of allowing guests to refresh body, mind, and spirit, national parks are often on the list for many RV enthusiasts, who tend to be nature lovers and enjoy getting outside to experience their surroundings. 

National Park Week means that a full slate of activities and events will be available for guests at all national parks across the country, and kicks off with a fee-free entry day on Saturday, April 22. 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 Kinds of Activities 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:

• Attend a tour or talk given by a park ranger
• Go hiking, fishing, swimming, paddling, horseback riding, or even stargazing
• View and appreciate wildlife in their natural habitats and surroundings 
• Enjoy a relaxing picnic or embark on an exciting white-water adventure 
• Check out demonstrations, programs, and reenactments at cultural sites 
• See geological wonders–think underground caves, waterfalls, and craters!–that detail the history of the earth and acts of nature 

What’s more, you can learn about historical figures and how they contributed to society. Plus, you can camp at many national parks. If you’re interested in RV camping at a national park, do research and plan your trip, and be sure to make reservations well in advance.

With an America the Beautiful annual park pass, you can have access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas for an entire year–and it only costs $80 for a standard pass. However, 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!