National park advocates are organizing events nationwide as the National Park Service commemorates its 110th anniversary. Activities are planned amidst changes in park fees and staffing structures.
NPCA’s Nationwide Day of Action
The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has announced a ‘Day of Action’ featuring 30 events across 20 parks and other sites. Visitors are encouraged to sign postcards for park employees and petitions encouraging Congress and the Trump administration to adequately support the park system. Events are scheduled at notable sites like Yosemite, Acadia, Glacier, Rocky Mountain, and New River Gorge national parks, among others.
Changes to Fees
The Interior Department introduced different annual-pass prices for U.S. residents and international visitors on January 1. U.S. citizens and residents can purchase the America the Beautiful annual pass for $80, while it costs $250 for nonresidents. Nonresidents without a pass will face a $100 surcharge in addition to the standard entrance fee at 11 popular parks.
This fee structure aims to keep park access affordable for residents while generating revenue from international visitors who don’t contribute through U.S. taxes.
Access and Conservation Initiatives
A July 2025 order instructed federal land management agencies to increase recreational access and promote conservation efforts. The order addresses a deferred-maintenance backlog exceeding $23 billion.
The Trump administration eased certain hunting restrictions in parks, lifting some bans on hunting along trails and other related activities. Restrictions necessary for safety and resource protection remain.
Budget Proposal and Workforce Issues
The administration proposed a fiscal 2026 budget of $2.1 billion for the National Park Service, focusing on park operations. This budget contrasts with a $3.6 billion proposal from the previous year. The administration aims to redirect funds from land acquisition towards deferred maintenance.
Staffing challenges have emerged due to a hiring freeze and workforce reductions. The NPCA reports significant staff losses resulting in reduced educational programming and fewer specialists.
Historical Interpretation Review
A 2025 executive order mandated a review of historical interpretation at federal sites. It sought to restore monuments and exhibits removed or changed to portray a misleading version of American history. The NPCA has criticized the order for removing exhibits on slavery, Indigenous peoples, and climate science.
The Interior Department connected NPCA’s political leanings to their organization’s affiliations, but NPCA denied political endorsements, citing its nonpartisan status.
Map of Events
Newsweek has provided a map showing the NPCA’s Day of Action events across the United States.
Final Days of National Park Week
National Park Week concludes under the theme “Celebrate America’s Story.” Remaining daily themes are:
- Monday, August 24: America in Motion Monday
- Tuesday, August 25: The National Park Service’s 110th Birthday and Fee-Free Day
- Wednesday, August 26: Watch Wildlife Wednesday
- Thursday, August 27: Thankful Thursday
- Friday, August 28: Freedom Friday
- Saturday, August 29: Staff Saturday
- Sunday, August 30: Junior Ranger Day
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