When vacation time calls, look to the national parks for some of the most satisfying and least costly alternatives. Open year round, national parks offer activities across the country. For outdoor adventure or indoor discovery — try a venture into the national parks.
There are almost 400 national parks to choose from so if you need a little help picking one, you're at the right place. Travel Tips can get you started. Park Lodging will help you find a place to sleep.
You can Find a Park to search for events and activities (see the Plan Your Visit section for each park), participate in one of the many Institutes and Field Schools or save some money and come on one of the days we waive entrance fees. You can browse our weekly getaway series for inspiration. You can even volunteer to help us take care of the national parks while you're here.
There's an adventure out there for everyone — plan yours soon!
October 16-20
Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park,
Ohio
Several fun and exciting events are on tap as the park celebrates 20 years as a national park.
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October 20-21
Shenandoah National Park,
Virginia
Celebrate America's wilderness heritage during the park's annual Wilderness Weekend. Test your skills with traditional tools as volunteers share their expertise in the tools used to maintain trails in wilderness.
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October 20-21
Timucuan Ecological and Historic Preserve,
Florida
Experience life during the Civil War at this living history encampment commemorating the Battle of St. Johns Bluff. The weekend will be packed with activities, including 19th century cooking, sewing, children's games, weapons demonstrations and cannon firings.
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October 20
New River Gorge,
West Virginia
West Virginia's largest one-day festival, celebrated on the third Saturday in October, commemorates the October 1977 completion of the New River Gorge Bridge.
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Daily; 2:15
San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park,
California
Take part in a guided tour of the historic ship Balclutha. Discover the hardships and rewards of the sailors who fought for survival during the treacherous Cape Horn passage.
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