National park entry to be free next year on President Trump's birthday - excluding Juneteenth and MLK Day

The National Park Service has updated its schedule of fee-free entry days, removing Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenthholidays introduced under President Joe Bidens administration. In their place, June 14, which coincides with both Flag Day and former President Donald Trumps birthday, has been added.

The announcement has drawn criticism, with former NAACP leader Cornell William Brooks commenting on X: The raw & rank racism here stinks to high heaven.

The new lineup of free admission days emphasizes patriotic observances, including Presidents' Day (February 16), Memorial Day (May 25), Independence Day weekend (July 3-5), Constitution Day (September 17), and Veterans Day (November 11).

Approximately 100 out of the nations 400 parks charge entrance fees, which vary by location. Standard passes for popular sites like the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone range from $20 to $35.

Additionally, starting in 2026, the National Park Service announced that free entry days will only be available to U.S. citizens and residents. Nonresidents will be required to pay the usual entrance fees along with any applicable nonresident charges. This follows a Trump administration directive to increase fees for foreign visitors to boost revenue.

The Interior Department projected in its May budget proposal that these changes could generate over $90 million annually. The department also introduced a new annual parks pass priced at $80 for U.S. citizens and residents and $250 for nonresidents. According to Secretary Doug Burgum, this approach ensures that American taxpayers retain affordable access while international visitors contribute to park upkeep and improvements.

Author: Aiden Foster