Get into Yosemite FREE Day Returns August 25th!

This year the National Park Service will celebrate Founder’s Day on Sunday, August 25, Yosemite National Park will celebrate Founder’s Day. In commemoration of this special day, entrance fees will be waived for all park visitors. Founder’s Day marks the birthday of the National Park Service (NPS). This year, the NPS will be celebrating its 97th birthday.

“Late summer is a wonderful time to visit Yosemite National Park,” stated Don Neubacher, Superintendent. “This is a great opportunity to visit the park and help celebrate the birth of the National Park Service.”

The National Park Service was established on August 25, 1916. Yosemite became a national park in 1890 and is one of the 401 units of the National Park System. The United States was the first country in the world to set aside its most significant places as national parks for preservation and enjoyment.

To help celebrate this special day, Yosemite will conduct an ecological restoration service project, in which park visitors are invited to participate. The project entails removing invasive species and thinning of small trees to protect park resources. The park will provide required gear and equipment. People who would like to participate should come prepared with closed-toe shoes, long pants, snacks, water, and sun protection. No RSVP is required and people wishing to participate should meet park staff in front of the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center at 9:00 a.m. on August 25.

Fees being waived for Founder’s Day include the park entrance only. All other fees associated with camping, lodging, or activities within the park are not waived. The fee waiver is good for Sunday, August 25, Founder’s Day, only.

By the way, if you were wondering about the photo, it’s pretty much what any ‘get in free’ day in Yosemite looks like, one giant parking lot.