Last updated: August 31, 2021
Article
President Biden Proclaims September 2021 as National Wilderness Month

Photo Credit: Jeff Rose
"During National Wilderness Month, we affirm that our Nation’s public lands and waters must be accessible to all Americans, we recognize that our lands and waters can revitalize the soul and solidify our respect for the natural wonders that surround us and the earth we share, and we recommit to their preservation and protection, today and for future generations."
The Wilderness Act established the National Wilderness Preservation System. Wilderness areas are designated by an act of Congress and this designation provides the highest level of legal protection for some of the most unique wildlands in the United States.
- Duration:
- 2 minutes, 50 seconds
The Wilderness Act of 1964 established the National Wilderness Preservation System, a national network of more than 800 federally-designated wilderness areas. These wilderness areas are managed by the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, US Fish and Wildlife Service, and US Forest Service.
Wilderness offers many benefits for everyone. These dynamic areas offer places for improved mental and physical health, clean air and water, habitat protection, and support community-based economic vitality. Together, the benefits of wilderness show that wilderness is good for us, our communities, and our planet.
The NPS invites everyone to celebrate National Wilderness Month with us this year. To learn more about wilderness, visit NPS.gov/wilderness and check out our America's Wilderness webisode series to virtually visit the wilderness of Fire Island National Seashore, Congaree National Park, Rocky Mountain National Park, and Wrangell-St. Elias National Park and Preserve, and many more!
And remember, if you're able to get out and explore a wilderness area, help ensure that everyone has a positive and inspiring experience by Recreating Responsibly and practicing Leave No Trace ethics and principles.