Get outdoors: You can visit a national park for free this weekend. Here’s what to know

If you’re trying to get in a trip to the national parks this fall, you could do it for free one day this weekend.

All national parks will have free admission on Saturday, Sept. 26, for National Public Lands Day, the National Park Service said in a Wednesday news release.

“National Public Lands Day is one of my favorite annual recognitions, as across the country I witness people sharing my passion for the outdoors,” said Margaret Everson, counselor to the secretary, in the news release. “This year the importance of our parks and open spaces is even more pronounced as they are recognized as safe spaces to recreate, relax and rejuvenate.”

The money from fees at national parks stays within the National Park Service, park officials said. At least 80% stays at the park where it was collected, according to NPS.

Many parks charge an entrance fee, which can range from $15 to about $35 depending on the park, according to NPS.

During the coronavirus pandemic, many people are heading outdoors for socially distant activities. The national parks were packed with tourists during the summer season, NPR reported.

National Public Lands Day usually has events to celebrate the outdoors. This year, however, many of the events will go virtual.

“A highlight will be a virtual concert at 10:00 AM EDT featuring musical artists and guest speakers broadcasting from some of America’s most scenic public lands, including Joshua Tree National Park and Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens,” the National Park Service said. “Following the concert, the sites will host virtual environmental education and conservation events.”

Some parks will have on-site activities that “will incorporate physical distancing,” NPS said.

There are six free entry days a year, according to the National Park Service. The next opportunity for free entry will be on Veterans Day.

This story was originally published September 24, 2020 at 6:44 PM with the headline "Get outdoors: You can visit a national park for free this weekend. Here’s what to know."