Each of our national parks is a national treasure, and can be a great experience for families of all ages. National parks offer a unique way to connect with nature and learn about our country.
There are 63 national parks and more than 400 total locations under the National Park Service umbrella. One excellent time to plan a visit to one of these spaces? A fee-free day. And you are in luck... there are six free days in 2025. On these fee-free days, around 100 national parks and park sites that usually charge entrance fees waive them. These fees usually range from $5 to $35.
The 2025 fee-free days at national parks are:
- January 20: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- April 19: First day of National Park Week
- June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
- August 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
- September 27: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
Please Note: The fee waiver for the fee-free days applies only to National Park Service entrance fees and does not cover amenity or user fees for camping, boat launches, transportation, special tours, or other activities.
 The Digital Artist | Canva |
National parks to visit in Colorado
We are lucky to have several national parks in our beautiful state (pictured in the lead photos). Mark your calendar to visit one of the following national parks on your next Colorado field trip.
Rocky Mountain National Park
Approximately 90 minutes northwest of Denver
Rocky Mountain National Park's 415 square miles (265,807 acres) encompasses a spectacular range of mountain environments. From meadows found in the montane life zone to glistening alpine lakes and up to the towering mountain peaks, there is something for everyone to discover. Along the way explore over 300 miles of hiking trails and incredible wildlife viewing.
Great Sand Dunes
South-central Colorado, approximately 4 hours from Denver
The tallest dunes in North America are the centerpiece in a diverse landscape of grasslands, wetlands, forests, alpine lakes, and tundra. Stay on a moonless night to experience countless stars in this International Dark Sky Park!
Black Canyon of the Gunnison
Western Colorado, approximately 4.5 hours from Denver
Big enough to be overwhelming, yet still intimate enough to feel the pulse of time. Come see some of the steepest cliffs, oldest rock, and craggiest spires in North America. Forces of nature and the Gunnison River sculpted this canyon over two million years. The result is a vertical wilderness of rock, water, and sky.
Mesa Verde
Southwest corner of Colorado, approximately 6.5 hours from Denver
For over 700 years, the Ancestral Pueblo people built thriving communities on the mesas and in the cliffs of Mesa Verde. Today, the park protects the rich cultural heritage of 27 Pueblos and Tribes and offers visitors a spectacular window into the past. This World Heritage Site and International Dark Sky Park is home to over a thousand species, including several that live nowhere else on earth.
 Kraynova | Pexels Everglades National Park |
Practical tips for visiting national parks with kids
1. Plan ahead
Check the weather before you go, as national parks can have varying elevations and climates. Understanding the typical weather during your visit can help you pack appropriately. You can find weather updates on the National Park Service website. Additionally, explore the website for general information, maps, and details on facilities like restrooms and parking. Starting your day at a visitor center can be helpful; many have informative exhibits and movies that can enhance your park experience.
2. Gather information on-site
Talk to a ranger at the visitor center. They can provide maps and answer your questions. Always have a paper map with you, as GPS and cell service may be unreliable in some areas. Look into the Junior Ranger program, which is available at every national park. It offers booklets with fun activities for kids and can keep them engaged and learning during the visit. Kids can turn in completed booklets to become official Junior Rangers, a fun way for kids to feel especially connected to a park!
3. Take a hike
Exploring a national park on foot is a great way to experience it fully. Most parks offer various trails, from short walks to day-long hikes. Trails are usually rated by difficulty, so you can choose one suitable for your family. As your kids grow, you can tackle longer hikes. Here's what to pack for a day in the park:
- Water: Stay hydrated and know the locations of refill stations.
- Snacks or a meal: Picnic areas are often available, so bring some food.
- Garbage bag: Pack out your trash; not all parks have ample garbage bins.
- Layers: Be ready for changing temperatures.
- Sun protection: Protect against sunburn.
- Good shoes: Wear supportive footwear.
- Bug spray: Be prepared for bugs.
- Gas: Ensure you have enough for remote areas with no cell service.
Visiting national parks is a fantastic way to appreciate our natural wonders. Take advantage of a fee-free day at a national park in 2025 and make some family memories!
