Free National Park Days in 2025? Yes, please! This is a fantastic way to explore America’s breathtaking natural landscapes without breaking the bank. And let’s be honest, every penny counts!
To help you prepare, we’re sharing all the dates for Free National Park Days in 2025 so you can plan and make the most of these fantastic opportunities. We highlight the top national parks near DC that you should cross off your bucket list this year.
We love starting a new year with a fun outdoor tradition! Every year, we pick a date to visit a national park and try to explore a new one. There’s something special about discovering new landscapes, trails, and historical sites, and we can’t wait to share our favorite picks with you!
Table of Contents
- 2025 National Park FREE Entrance Dates
- Best National Parks to Visit Near Washington DC
- 1. Great Falls Park
- 2. Prince William Forest Park
- 3. Shenandoah National Park
- 4. Colonial National Historical Park
- 5. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
- 6. Assateague Island National Seashore (Virginia & Maryland)
- 7. Antietam National Battlefield
- 8. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal (Washington DC & Maryland)
- 9. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
- Best Hiking Gear and Essentials for 2025
2025 National Park FREE Entrance Dates
2025 offers nature lovers a wonderful opportunity to explore the United States national parks at no cost. The National Park Service has announced six special days when entrance fees are waived throughout the year, providing all visitors free access. These dates are strategically chosen to commemorate significant events and encourage public engagement with these treasured natural landscapes.
Here are the six free entrance days for National Parks in 2025:
- January 20: This day celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday. It’s a chance to honor this civil rights leader’s legacy while enjoying the natural beauty of the parks.
- April 19: This marks the first day of National Park Week, a time when the parks are celebrated nationwide. It’s an ideal time to start planning your springtime outdoor adventures.
- June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day is commemorated, a day significant in American history marking the end of slavery. Visiting the parks on this day offers a blend of reflection and enjoyment of freedom in the nation’s stunning landscapes.
- August 4: This date celebrates the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act, a landmark law aimed at restoring and maintaining national parks and public lands.
- September 27: National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest single-day volunteer effort for public lands. It’s a day to enjoy and contribute to the upkeep and preservation of these natural spaces.
- November 11: Veterans Day! It’s a fitting occasion to explore the parks and reflect on the country’s history and the sacrifices of its service members.
Best National Parks to Visit Near Washington DC
All the parks listed below will provide Free National Park Days, so be sure to add the national park and date you want to visit to your calendar.
1. Great Falls Park
Explore Great Falls Park, an 800-acre park just outside Washington D.C. in Virginia. Open daily from 7 a.m. until dark, the park offers stunning views of the Great Falls of the Potomac River, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Join a ranger-led program or event to learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history.
Key Details:
- Address: 9200 Old Dominion Dr. McLean, VA 22102, USA
- Cost: $20 per vehicle
- Phone: 703-757-3101
For more information, visit the Great Falls Park webpage.
2. Prince William Forest Park
Prince William Forest Park in Virginia, near Washington D.C., spans 15,000 acres of forest. Established in 1935 as Chopawamsic Recreation Demonstration Area, it’s known for its Civilian Conservation Corps-constructed cabin camps. The park offers camping, hiking, picnicking, and bicycling, protecting the Quantico Creek Watershed.
Key Details:
- Address: 18170 Park Entrance Road Triangle, VA 22172
- Cost: $20 per vehicle
- Phone: 703-221-7181
For more information, visit the Prince William Forest Park webpage.
3. Shenandoah National Park
Shenandoah National Park, located in Virginia, is renowned for its scenic Skyline Drive and over 500 miles of trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail. The park’s diverse landscape features waterfalls, viewpoints, and quiet wooded hollows. Open year-round, it offers hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing activities.
Key Details:
- Address: Virginia, United States
- Cost: $30 per vehicle
- Phone: 540-999-3500
For more information, visit the Shenandoah National Park webpage.
4. Colonial National Historical Park
Colonial National Historical Park in Virginia encompasses Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown Battlefield. The park offers insight into America’s early history, from the first English settlement to the decisive Revolutionary War battle.
Key Details:
- Address: 1000 Colonial Parkway Yorktown, VA 23690
- Cost: $15 per person
- Phone: 757-898-2410
For more information, visit the Colonial National Historical Park webpage.
5. Harpers Ferry National Historical Park
Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, located at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers in West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland, is open year-round from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with extended summer hours. It highlights the area’s rich history and natural beauty.
Key Details:
- Address: 171 Shoreline Dr, Harpers Ferry, WV 25425
- Cost: $20 per vehicle
- Phone: 304-535-6029
For more information, visit the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park webpage.
6. Assateague Island National Seashore (Virginia & Maryland)
Assateague Island National Seashore is a 37-mile barrier island stretching along the coasts of Maryland and Virginia. Known for its wild horses, the island offers recreational opportunities like beachcombing, camping, and wildlife viewing. The National Park Service manages the Maryland district, while the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service manages the Virginia district. Visitor experiences may vary seasonally, and it’s essential to bring necessary supplies as options are limited on the island.
Key Details:
- Address: 7206 National Seashore Lane Berlin, MD 21811
- Phone: 410-641-1441
For more information, visit the Assateague Island National Seashore webpage.
7. Antietam National Battlefield
Antietam National Battlefield in Maryland is a significant Civil War site. It’s known for the Battle of Antietam, the bloodiest single-day battle in American history.
Key Details:
- Address: 5831 Dunker Church Road, Sharpsburg, Maryland, 21782
- Cost: $10 per person
- Phone: 301-432-5124
For more information, visit the Antietam National Battlefield webpage.
8. Chesapeake & Ohio Canal (Washington DC & Maryland)
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park stretches 184.5 miles from Washington, D.C., to Cumberland, Maryland, offering scenic beauty and a rich historical experience. It follows the route of the historic C&O Canal and is a popular destination for outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and boating.
Key Details:
- Address: The park extends from Georgetown in Washington D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland. 142 W. Potomac St. Williamsport, MD 21795
- Cost: $20 per vehicle
- Phone: 301-739-4200
For more information, visit the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park webpage.
9. Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine in Baltimore, Maryland, is a significant historical site where the Star-Spangled Banner was written. The park offers self-guided tours and special events, including Defenders’ Day and living history programs. Visitors are encouraged to plan for a two-hour visit to experience the fort and its history fully.
Key Details:
- Address: 2400 East Fort Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21230
- Cost: $15 per person
- Phone: 410 962-4290 x250
For more information, visit the Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine webpage.
Best Hiking Gear and Essentials for 2025
Here’s a roundup of the best hiking gear and essentials our family uses:
- Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles: These trekking poles are lightweight carbon fiber and feature cork grips for comfortable handling. They provide stability and reduce strain on your legs, making them essential for long hikes, especially on challenging terrains. The adjustable length ensures a custom fit.
- Male and Female Disposable Urine Bags: These disposable bags are designed for convenience during outdoor adventures. They are handy for backpackers and hikers who may not have access to restroom facilities. They are discreet, leak-proof, and easy to use, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
- Puddles 2 Oceans Water Bottle with Snack Compartment: This versatile water bottle is a hydration solution and a snack container. It’s perfect for hikers who want to stay hydrated while carrying their favorite snacks. The insulation keeps your beverage at the desired temperature, and the snack compartment eliminates the need for additional containers.
- Portable Battery Charger: In today’s tech-savvy world, keeping your devices charged during outdoor adventures is crucial. A USB battery charger provides a power source for your smartphone, GPS, or other gadgets, ensuring you stay connected and safe in emergencies.
- Natural Insect Repellent: Protecting yourself from insects and ticks is vital for an enjoyable hiking experience. Natural insect repellents use plant-based ingredients to deter bugs without harmful chemicals, making them safer for you and the environment.
- Hat: This versatile hat is designed for outdoor adventurers. It provides UPF 50+ sun protection, shields your face from rain, and has a moisture-wicking sweatband to keep you comfortable during hot and wet conditions. Its adjustable sizing ensures a secure fit.
Enjoy and have fun!
