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The days are longer and the opportunities are greater to enjoy national parks. Summer is traditionally a lively time in national parks with people coming out to enjoy vacations during summer break. As always, remember to check ahead of your visit for trip planning, rules, weather, and safety considerations.
A Few Summertime Suggestions
These are a few suggestions of things to enjoy in national parks this summer:
- Celebration of America. Join the nationwide celebration of our country's 250th anniversary in national parks. Visit historic sites, monuments, and memorials to learn about American achievements, resiliency, innovation, and other inspirations.
- Junior Rangers. School’s out for summer but keep your brain sharp while having fun in national parks. Most national parks have Junior Ranger books, activities, and ranger programs to learn about nature, history, and how to protect these special places for everyone to enjoy. And may even earn a Junior Ranger badge!
- Beautiful Beaches. Soak in the summer sun at the many beaches along oceans, lakes, and rivers. There are many beaches in national parks where you can swim, fish, boat, paddle, picnic, or relax in the sun. Check ahead for specific activities allowed on the beach you are visiting and important safety information.
- Outdoor Adventures. Take advantage of the warmer weather to explore the great outdoors. Enjoy your favorite outdoor activity or try something new with the many possibilities—camping, hiking, biking, paddling, horseback riding, diving, fishing, and much more!
- Serene Sunrises and Sunsets. You may have to get up a little earlier or stay up later, but the stunning summer sunrises and sunsets in national parks are often worth it. They can offer dramatic colors lighting up the skies over uninterrupted natural beauty of natural landscapes.
Seasonal Celebrations and Happenings
Many cultures, communities, and families also have summer traditions and celebrations that are shared in national parks. Here are a few nationwide celebrations but check the calendar of events to find even more. If visiting a park, remember to plan your visit ahead of your trip for a more enjoyable experience.
Celebrate the nation's 250th birthday where history happened—in your national parks!
Explore military history in national parks, learn about our military heritage, and find opportunities for everyone in our public lands.
Come out to national parks on an entrance fee free day to celebrate one of America's most treasured values—freedom for all.
Celebrate the nation's birthday in some of its most scenic landscapes and historic places. Join July 4th festivities across the country.
Another year older on August 25. Join us in looking back at our history and looking ahead to our future.
Trip Planning Tools
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Entrance Passes
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Recreation.gov
Reserve camping, lodging, tickets, tours, permits, and passes available for many parks before you head out on your trip.
Calendar of Events
Find a park near you or explore in-park and virtual events hosted by parks across the country. Set the calendar to summer months to see what events are being hosted in national parks or online to join in the festivities.
Last updated: June 2, 2026