National Public Lands Day

Every year, National Public Lands Day (NPLD) brings together hundreds of thousands of volunteers across the country to restore and preserve public lands of all kinds, from iconic national parks to local urban green spaces. This year's theme, "National Public Lands Day: Together for Tomorrow," emphasizes the importance of joining forces to protect and care for America's natural treasures for future generations.

Organized annually by the National Environmental Education Foundation in partnership with the National Park Service and other federal agencies, NPLD is much more than a clean-up event. It provides an opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds to come together in a shared mission to protect public lands. It fosters a sense of community and stewardship while also offering opportunities to connect with new people, learn about conservation, and experience the physical and mental health benefits of spending time outdoors.

Since its establishment in 1994, NPLD has become the nation's largest single-day volunteer event dedicated to public lands. Held every year on the fourth Saturday of September, it celebrates the vital connection between people and green spaces, encouraging environmental stewardship and the use of public lands for recreation, education, and overall well-being. This year, National Public Lands Day will take place on September 28, 2024, and volunteers across the nation will roll up their sleeves to contribute to the preservation of our environment.

In addition to the volunteer efforts, National Public Lands Day is also a free admission day to all National Park Service units that normally charge an entrance fee. It’s the perfect chance to enjoy the beauty of America’s national parks while contributing to a cause that benefits everyone.

Join the movement and be part of this impactful day by volunteering or simply getting out and enjoying the public lands we all cherish. Together for Tomorrow, we can make a difference!

There are many ways to help support our parks on National Public Lands Day!

Volunteer: The National Park Service offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for individuals and groups as part of the Volunteers-In-Parks program. Work behind the scenes or on the front line in positions ranging from a one-time service project/ volunteer event to a longer term position, serving alongside park employees or with one of our many partner organizations. Opportunities are available at park locations throughout the United States, including the territories in the Pacific and the Caribbean.

Donate: Simply donating to the National Park Foundation will contribute to the 400+ national parks in the country. We have 84 million acres of land to protect!

Contribute to any of the Conservancies, Associations and Foundations that support our National Parks: These organizations support our national parks in many ways, from trail restoration programs to education and interpretive programs, honoring our shared history -- and helping shape the national park experience for every visitor. 

Become a Member: You can become a member of one of the many national, regional or local organizations, associations and conservancies that support our national parks. If you're already a member, renew for next year!

Share your Park Experience with Others: The only way to spread the word about the beauty and importance of national parks is to show other people just how wonderful these places are. Share your stories and pictures with friends, family and on social media and encourage others to find their park!

I’m trying to make a difference by giving back to the amazing organizations, associations, trusts and conservancies that support the National Parks. I feel that it’s important to protect America’s special places, and to connect people with nature. And it’s up to all of us to pitch in. Perhaps more importantly, we need to inspire the next generation of park supporters. Click here to earn about how I'm Giving Back

So you can see how easy it is to support America's national parks! Now it's time to start planning your next National Park adventure! 

Click Here to Start Exploring America's National Parks

Join the growing community of 125k+ National Park enthusiasts to receive insider deals and updates.