2025 National Park Fee-Free Days: Family Guide + Florida Parks
Fee-free dates, Florida park highlights, and kid-friendly tips, packing list & Junior Ranger info.
America's national parks are living classrooms and epic backdrops for family time. With 63 official national parks and 400+ National Park Service sites, there's an adventure for every age and stage. Use this guide to plan your 2025 fee-free visits, spotlight Florida's parks, and make the day smooth with kid-tested tips.
| Plan Your Visit on a Fee-Free Day |
On fee-free days, entrance fees (usually $5–$35) are waived at 100 participating parks. Other costs, such as camping, tours, transportation, or special programs, still apply.
2025 Fee-Free Days
- January 20 - Martin Luther King Jr. Day
- April 19 - First Day of National Park Week
- June 19 - Juneteenth
- August 4 - Great American Outdoors Day
- September 27 - National Public Lands Day
- November 11 - Veterans Day
| National Parks in Florida |
Florida is home to three official national parks, each with its own brand of wild beauty.
🌴 Everglades National Park
The largest subtropical wilderness in the U.S. Features sawgrass marshes, alligators, and incredible birding opportunities. Explore by foot, bike, tram, kayak, or airboat.
🌊 Dry Tortugas National Park
Accessible only by boat or seaplane, this remote gem boasts crystal-clear water, vibrant coral reefs, and historic Fort Jefferson. A dream for snorkelers and adventurous families, have a transport plan.
🐠 Biscayne National Park
Just south of Miami and 95% water. Paddle along mangrove shorelines, spot marine life over reefs, and explore islands by guided boat tour or kayak.
| Practical Tips for Visiting with Kids |
1) Plan. Check weather, hours, maps, and facilities on the NPS site. Start at a visitor center for exhibits, park films, and rangers' route advice.
2) Gather info on-site. Grab a paper map (GPS can fail) and ask for the Junior Ranger booklet. When kids complete activities, they're sworn in as official Junior Rangers.
3) Take a hike. Choose trails by posted difficulty. Start short and add adventure as your kids are ready.
| What to Pack |
- Water - Hydrate and note refill stations.
- Snacks/Meals - Many parks have picnic areas.
- Garbage Bag - Pack it in, pack it out.
- Layers -Temps and wind shift quickly.
- Sun protection-Sunscreen, hats, sunglasses.
- Good shoes -Sturdy footwear keeps kids happy.
- Bug spray - Especially in marshy/wooded areas.
- Gas -Fill up before remote drives; cell service can be spotty.
