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National Park Service Founders Day

Honor the founders of the National Park Service on Founders Day - explore a new park, take a hike, and enjoy nature's beauty!

Tuesday

August 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAugust 25

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYCulture

SUBCATEGORYCivics

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Celebrate National Park Service Founders Day on Aug. 25! This day was created to recognize the establishment of the National Park Service in 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson. The NPS is responsible for protecting over 400 parks, monuments, and historic sites across the United States. On this day, we can take time to appreciate all the beauty of these parks and thank those who have worked hard to preserve them for future generations. There are plenty of ways to get out and explore your local parks - from hiking trails to camping, fishing, or simply appreciating nature's wonders. So let’s get outside and enjoy our national parks!

TIMELINE

National Park Service Founders Day Timeline

First National Park

Yellowstone becomes the first national park in the world, highlighting the need for a designated organization to manage and protect these lands.

First Forest Reserve

The Forest Reserve Act is passed which led to the creation of the first Forest Reserve, later known as a National Forest, a precursor to the National Park Service.

National Park Service Establishment

President Woodrow Wilson establishes the National Park Service on August 25. Its mission is to conserve and protect the natural beauty of the parks.

National Historic Preservation Act

This Act significantly broadens the National Park Service's role in preserving significant historic sites across America.

National Monument Expansion

Vast expansions to the National Monuments, most by President Clinton, emphasize the importance of protection of natural and cultural resources in USA.

Centennial Celebration

The National Park Service celebrates 100 years of preserving and protecting America's natural and cultural heritage for the enjoyment of current and future generations.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Park Service Founders Day

Visit a National Park

Explore the beauty and wilderness of our National Parks and take a hike or bike ride to soak in nature.

ATTEND

Attend a Park Ranger Program

Participate in a ranger program or scheduled event at a local National Park. These programs are a great way to learn more about the natural and cultural heritage that is preserved in our National Parks.

VOLUNTEER

Volunteer at a Park

Volunteer your time to help with habitat restoration, trail maintenance, or special event planning. Volunteering is a great way to give back and help preserve the legacy of the National Park Service.

TAKE

Take a Photo Walk

Bring your camera and take a photo walk through any of the many beautiful National Parks to capture all of the stunning sights.

Share your Experience

Share your experiences at National Parks with friends and family, and spread the word about how amazing our parks are - don't forget to hashtag it #NPSFOUNDERSDAY!

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Park Service Founders Day is Important

It encourages people to explore parks

National Park Service Founders Day is also a great opportunity to highlight the tremendous benefits offered by visiting national parks. They can be wonderful educational experiences that allow us to learn about and appreciate nature in its purest form. They are also perfect locations for enjoying activities such as camping, fishing, and hiking - and just getting back in touch with nature!

It honors the founders of the National Park Service

National Park Service Founders Day is a day to recognize and celebrate the founding of the National Park Service in 1916. It's a time to remember those who worked hard to create our country’s first national parks, so that all Americans can enjoy their beauty and majestic splendor.

It recognizes the importance of conservation

The creation of the National Park Service was a major step forward in recognizing the importance of preserving our natural environment and conserving its resources. Through establishing these incredible places, we have committed to protecting them, ensuring they remain beautiful and accessible for future generations.