A bill introduced to the Senate would restore Juneteenth, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and other important days as fee-free days at national parks. The bill, S.3429, Encouraging Public Service in Our National Parks and Public Land Act, has found widespread support among 35 organizations, who sent a formal letter affirming their desire to see the bill passed.
“Public lands are national treasures that belong to everyone, and getting a new generation outside and enjoying them is vital to their protection,” said Steve Pedery, conservation director with Oregon Wild. “The Juneteenth fee-free day created an opportunity for families from all economic backgrounds to fall in love with public lands, and it should be restored.”
In addition to Juneteenth and Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the bill would codify the first day of National Park Week in April, Great American Outdoors Day, National Public Lands Day, and Veterans Day as fee-free days.
"America's public lands belong to all of us, and fee-free days help ensure that access isn't limited by income or circumstance," said Michelle Lute, executive director of Wildlife for All.
In their letter, the organizations state, “We the undersigned believe that fee-free days remove barriers for all people to explore some of America's most beloved trails and appreciate places of national historical interest.” The letter also encourages Congress to ensure that fee-free days apply to all national park visitors, including those who are not residents of the United States.
"Entrance fees at national parks discriminate based on wealth, posing barriers to access by lower-income communities," said Erik Molvar, executive director of Western Watersheds Project. "Every day should be a fee-free day at America's National Parks, but at the very least, fees should be waived for important holidays celebrating our national diversity such as Juneteenth and Martin Luther King Jr. Day."
Story Categories:
A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.
Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:
- Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
- Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
- Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
- North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
- Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
- Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
- Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.
INN Member
The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.
Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.
Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.
You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.
