Congress Designates May 16 As National Kids To Parks Day

By

NPT Staff
May 15, 2026

Kids looking through thick vegetation at a tall arched bridge over a river
Congress has designated Saturday, May 16, as National Kids to Parks Day / NPS, Victoria Stauffenberg.

Congress has designated Saturday, May 16, as National Kids to Parks Day. The U.S. Senate unanimously approved the bipartisan resolution to encourage children and families across the country to spend more time outdoors, especially in the nation’s parks. The resolution was led by Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and Ron Wyden, D-Ore.

“Time outdoors gives children the chance to be active, curious, and connected to the world around them,” said Hyde-Smith.  “National Kids to Parks Day is a great reminder for families to step away from screens, explore our parks and trails, and enjoy the natural beauty we’re fortunate to have in Mississippi and across the country.”

The Kids to Parks initiative was created by the National Park Trust in 2011 to encourage children and families to explore the outdoors. According to the new resolution, the goals of National Kids to Parks Day are to promote healthy outdoor recreation and responsible environmental stewardship; to empower young people; and to encourage families to get outdoors and visit the parks and public land of the United States.

“We are excited that National Kids to Parks Day is commemorating its Sweet 16 – 16 years of park celebration and appreciation on May 16th,” said Grace Lee, executive director of National Park Trust. “Spending time enjoying our public lands and parks plays a vital role in children’s health and well-being. We also believe that kids who grow up exploring parks are more likely to become the future stewards these spaces need to thrive.”

 

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.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks 

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.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks 

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.