National Park Service to Waive Fees at Select Sites September 17

Visitors have numerous ways to explore spectacular U.S. parks this year, from urban landscapes to iconic national parks. San Francisco’s Golden Gate Park and Colorado Springs’ Garden of the Gods demonstrate how city parks can offer museums, gardens, wildlife, dramatic scenery and extensive trails without the setting of a traditional national park. Yosemite, Glacier and Arches have removed vehicle-reservation requirements for 2026, while Rocky Mountain National Park has retained timed entry through mid-October; post-Labor Day travel may bring lighter crowds, though seasonal closures still apply. The National Park Service will also waive entrance fees at participating sites, including Yellowstone and Grand Canyon, on September 17, 2026, although camping, permits, reservations and special activities may still cost extra. In addition, parks such as Great Smoky Mountains and Redwood National and State Parks offer free admission year-round, providing budget-friendly alternatives for travelers planning nature-focused trips.