The National Park Service will offer free admission to U.S. National Parks on five days in 2020.
Visitors and nature lovers can explore the stunning beauty of America's public lands and monuments while celebrating the birthday of Martin Luther King Jr. on Jan. 20. Other free admission days will be on April 18 in honor of National Park Week, Aug. 25 to celebrate the birthday of the National Park Service, Sept. 26 on National Public Lands Day and Nov. 11 for Veterans Day, according to a news release.
"Across the country, more than 400 national parks preserve significant natural and cultural areas, each one an important piece of our national identity and heritage," said National Park Service Deputy Director David Vela, in the release. "Free entrance days serve as additional motivation for people to get outside and enjoy these places of inspiration and recreation."
Here in South Florida, there are many fun things to do at Everglades National Park, America's largest subtropical wilderness. Cooler weather during the dry season is the best time to explore the River of Grass, which covers more than 1.5 million acres. The park has three unconnected entrances.
There is much to learn and appreciate about this delicate and vital ecosystem. The park is a World Heritage Site, International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance and a specially protected area under the Cartagena Treaty.
The entry fee is $30 per vehicle, $25 for motorcycles and $15 for cyclists.
Meanwhile, more than 300 National Parks never charge entry fees, while fees at 110 parks range from $5 to $35.
Senior citizens, current military members, fourth-grade students and disabled citizens get free or discounted admission every day of the year. Get more information at NPS.gov/planyourvisit/passes.htm.
Also, nature lovers can get unlimited free entry to 2,000 parks and federal recreation areas with an annual $80 America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Pass.
