Visitors looking to explore America's natural treasures will have the opportunity to enter national parks and Wyoming state parks free of charge on Saturday, September 27, in celebration of National Public Lands Day. This annual event represents the nation's largest single-day volunteer effort dedicated to caring for and celebrating public lands.
National Public Lands Day has been held every year since 1994, taking place on the fourth Saturday of September. The event combines free park access with volunteer opportunities, allowing communities across the country to give back to the places that make their regions unique. In 2024, the program demonstrated remarkable participation, with more than 130 national parks hosting events and 7,600 volunteers contributing an impressive 41,500 hours of service to conservation and maintenance efforts.
All national parks that typically charge entrance fees will offer free admission to everyone on Saturday. The Wyoming Department of State Parks and Cultural Resources has joined this national tradition by organizing volunteer opportunities across state parks, historic sites, and recreation areas throughout the state. Day-use and entrance fees will be waived at all Wyoming state parks and historic sites on Saturday, providing residents and visitors with unprecedented access to the state's natural and historical treasures.
Volunteer opportunities will be available at 15 state parks across Wyoming, giving residents a chance to actively participate in conservation efforts. At Keyhole State Park, an organized trash pickup event will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday. Interested volunteers can meet at the Cliff Shelter in Coulter Bay at 10 a.m., where they will be divided into teams for the cleanup effort. The park will provide all necessary equipment, including gloves, trash bags, and tools. Those interested in participating can call 307-205-3149 for more information.
Several other prominent Wyoming state parks will also offer volunteer opportunities throughout the day. Curt Gowdy State Park, Buffalo Bill State Park, and Hot Springs State Park are among the participating locations that will host various conservation and maintenance activities. Park officials encourage interested individuals to visit the state parks website for comprehensive information about volunteer opportunities and a complete list of all participating parks and their specific activities.
The combination of free access and volunteer opportunities makes National Public Lands Day an ideal time for families and individuals to connect with nature while contributing to conservation efforts. This initiative not only provides economic relief for visitors but also fosters a sense of community stewardship and environmental responsibility that extends far beyond the single day of celebration.
