Trump's birthday included in list of free days at national parks; MLK Day, Juneteenth no longer eligible

The schedule of complimentary admission days at U.S. National Parks has been revised, eliminating Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth from the list. In contrast, June 14, which marks both Flag Day and former President Donald Trump's birthday, has been added, according to the National Park Service (NPS).

Under the previous administration, Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth were recognized as fee-free days. The updated schedule now emphasizes holidays with patriotic significance, such as Presidents' Day (February 16), Memorial Day (May 25), Independence Day weekend (July 3-5), Constitution Day (September 17), and Veterans Day (November 11). Additionally, the 110th anniversary of the National Park Service (August 25) and President Theodore Roosevelts birthday (October 27) will continue to be free admission days.

The NPS clarified that non-U.S. citizens or permanent residents will still be required to pay entrance fees and any applicable nonresident charges on these dates. Currently, around 100 of the nation's 400 national parks charge entrance fees, which vary depending on the park.

Recently, the Trump administration announced a new nonresident fee of $100 at 11 major parks and proposed raising the annual pass from $80 to $250 for non-U.S. visitors starting in 2026. This move follows a July executive order instructing parks to increase fees for international tourists and give U.S. residents priority in access, including permit or lottery systems.

The Department of the Interior projected that the new surcharge for international visitors could generate over $90 million per year. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum stated that these adjustments ensure U.S. taxpayers maintain affordable access while requiring international visitors to help support park maintenance and improvements.

National parks continue to attract significant international tourism. The U.S. Travel Association reported that in 2018, over 14 million foreign visitors explored national parks and monuments, while Yellowstone saw about 15% of visitors from abroad in 2024, a decline from 30% in 2018.

Author: Natalie Monroe