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Mark Your Calendars: 2026’s Best Days to Get Outdoors!
- wander4soul
- Jan 31
- 2 min read
2026 Is Calling—Let’s Plan Some Adventures
It’s time! 2026 is shaping up to be another year to discover, learn, and explore.
Whether you’re dreaming of soaking in the rugged beauty of Shenandoah National Park or just looking for a good excuse to lace up your boots and hit a local trail, the year ahead is packed with opportunities to get outside. From National Park Service fee-free days to nationwide celebrations of all things outdoors, these are the dates you’ll want to circle now as you plan your next bend adventures.
🎟️ 2026 National Park Fee-Free Days
The National Park Service has announced its fee-free days for 2026. On these dates, entrance fees are waived at parks and sites that normally charge an entrance fee—making it the perfect time to explore a little farther afield.
Mark your calendar:
February 16 – Presidents’ Day
May 25 – Memorial Day
June 14 – Flag Day
July 3–5 – Independence Day Weekend
August 25 – 110th Birthday of the National Park Service
September 17 – Constitution Day
October 27 – Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
November 11 – Veterans Day
⚠️ Important Note for 2026: Beginning this year, fee-free entry on these specific dates applies to U.S. citizens and residents only. Non-residents and international visitors will still be subject to standard entry fees and the new 2026 fee schedules. For full details on the new pricing, visit the NPS Fees & Passes page.
🌿 Our Favorite National Days for Outdoor Lovers
Beyond the fee-free dates, these national celebrations are perfect excuses to plan a hike, backpacking trip, cleanup day, or even a simple backyard campout.
June 6 – National Trails Day
June 13 – National Get Outdoors Day
September 26 – National Public Lands Day
November 17 – National Take a Hike Day
November 19 – National Camping Day
Any of these make a great anchor for an adventure—big or small.
Let's Get Planning!
Great adventures don’t plan themselves. Dates, logistics, meals, gear, training—it all takes time. So don’t wait until the trailhead is calling loudly… start planning now. Ready to start planning?
Download our free 2026 Adventure Planning Checklist and turn those dates into real trail time!
At Next Bend Adventures, we love using these dates as a springboard for connection and exploration. Keep an eye on our site for announcements about special events, guided group hikes, and wilderness skills workshops scheduled around these celebrations.
Thinking about a private hike or custom group adventure on one of these dates? Reach out through our Contact Form—we’d love to help you plan what’s waiting just around your next bend.
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