Free Days at U.S. National Parks

Our national parks are even better when admission is free!

Ok, Columbus doesn’t have any national parks, but why not take advantage of free days at U.S. National Parks that are located in Ohio and states around Ohio.

Remaining 2020 National Parks entrance fee-free dates

• August 25: National Park Service Birthday
• September 26: National Public Lands Day
• November 11: Veterans Day

Mark your calendar now for entrance fee-free dates for the coming year. On these dates, FREE entrance is available to 133 National Parks across the country that normally charge a fee. During the fee-free days, the parks waive entrance fees, commercial tour fees and transportation entrance fees. Other fees such as reservations, camping, tours, concessions and fees collected by third parties are not included in this promotion.

Cuyahoga Valley

Cleveland and Akron, OH

Though a short distance from the urban areas of Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park seems worlds away. The park is a refuge for native plants and wildlife, and provides routes of discovery for visitors. The winding Cuyahoga River gives way to deep forests, rolling hills, and open farmlands. Walk or ride the Towpath Trail to follow the historic route of the Ohio & Erie Canal.

Isle Royale

Houghton, MI

Explore a rugged, isolated island, far from the sights and sounds of civilization. Surrounded by Lake Superior, Isle Royale offers unparalleled solitude and adventures for backpackers, hikers, boaters, kayakers, canoeists and scuba divers. Here, amid stunning scenic beauty, you’ll find opportunities for reflection and discovery, and make memories that last a lifetime.

Indiana Dunes

Porter, IN

Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national park’s 15,000 acres will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 50 miles of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers and peaceful forests.

Mammoth Cave

Mammoth Cave, KY

This national park preserves not only the cave system, but also 53,000 acres of beautiful forest. With the world’s longest cave (400+ miles) below ground, and a surface boasting nearly 70 miles of nature trail, 13 backcountry campsites, three campgrounds, and over 20 miles of navigable river to explore and enjoy, it really is two worlds in one.

We hope these give you some new ideas for some outdoor fun as you Get Out And Enjoy Columbus!