National Park Week is coming to California this August, giving nature lovers a reason to get outside and explore.
The annual celebration takes place August 22–30, 2026. This year’s theme is “Celebrate America’s Story,” honoring the country’s 250th anniversary. The week also marks the 110th birthday of the National Park Service.
The National Park Service will host special programs throughout the week. Visitors can join ranger programs, explore historic sites, learn about wildlife, and take part in Junior Ranger activities.
California is home to some of the country’s most spectacular national parks. From Yosemite’s granite cliffs to Joshua Tree’s desert landscapes, there are plenty of places to celebrate.
When are California National Parks free?
The biggest day to mark on your calendar is Tuesday, August 25. The National Park Service is waiving entrance fees for U.S. citizens and residents that day. The free-entry day celebrates the NPS’s 110th birthday.
That means you can visit participating California national parks without paying the usual entrance fee. Keep in mind that other costs, such as camping, reservations, tours, or special permits, may still apply.
California’s National Parks to explore during National Park Week
California is home to nine national parks, each offering a completely different way to experience the Golden State. From towering sequoias to volcanic landscapes and remote islands, here’s where you can celebrate National Park Week.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is one of California’s most iconic national parks. It’s known for towering granite cliffs, massive waterfalls, peaceful meadows and ancient sequoias. The park covers nearly 1,200 square miles, so there’s plenty to explore beyond the famous Yosemite Valley.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree feels like another planet. The park is where the Mojave and Colorado deserts meet, creating a landscape filled with unusual plants, giant boulders and surreal rock formations. It’s also known for its dark night skies, making it a popular spot for stargazing.
Death Valley National Park
Death Valley is a land of extremes. It’s home to one of the hottest and driest environments in North America, with vast salt flats, rugged mountains and desert landscapes. Despite its harsh conditions, the park is also home to surprising wildlife and colorful wildflower displays after rainy years.
Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park is home to some of the largest trees on Earth. Visitors can walk among enormous giant sequoias, including the famous General Sherman Tree. The park also features mountain scenery, deep canyons and plenty of opportunities for hiking.
Kings Canyon National Park
Right next door, Kings Canyon offers dramatic mountain scenery and one of the deepest canyons in the country. The park combines rugged wilderness with towering sequoia groves, making it an incredible destination for hikers and outdoor lovers.
Channel Islands National Park
Just off the Southern California coast, Channel Islands National Park feels worlds away from the mainland. The park protects five islands and the surrounding ocean. Visitors can explore beaches, hike coastal trails, kayak and spot unique wildlife.
Redwood National Park
Redwood National and State Parks are home to the world’s tallest trees. The protected landscape stretches from ancient redwood forests to open prairies, rivers and rugged coastline. It’s a peaceful place to slow down and walk beneath some truly enormous trees.
Lassen Volcanic National Park
Lassen Volcanic National Park offers a different kind of California landscape. The park is filled with volcanoes, steaming fumaroles, mountain lakes and wildflower-filled meadows. It’s also one of the best places in the state to see the effects of volcanic activity up close.
Pinnacles National Park
Pinnacles is known for its dramatic rock formations, towering spires and narrow canyons. The landscape was shaped by ancient volcanic activity millions of years ago. Today, it’s a popular destination for hiking and exploring some of California’s most unusual scenery.
What else is happening during National Park Week?
The NPS has a full lineup of themed days throughout the celebration.
August 22: Kickoff Saturday
August 23: Safety Sunday
August 24: America in Motion Monday
August 25: NPS 110th Birthday & Fee-Free Day
August 26: Watch Wildlife Wednesday
August 27: Thankful Thursday
August 28: Freedom Friday
August 29: Staff Saturday
August 30: Junior Ranger Day
The NPS is celebrating National Junior Ranger Day on August 30, inviting kids of all ages to explore, learn and earn their Junior Ranger badges.
So whether you’re planning a day trip, a weekend road trip or simply want to spend a summer day surrounded by nature, National Park Week is a great excuse to explore California’s incredible public lands.
📅When: August 22–30, 2026
🎟️ Free entrance day: August 25
