The United States is a treasure trove of natural wonders, with national parks spanning across its vast landscapes. These parks make for fantastic visits any time of year, but there’s something special about experiencing them during the National Park Service’s fee-free days. Here are the 10 best states to visit where you can enjoy the scenic beauty without an entrance fee:

1.California: Home to nine national parks, including the world-famous Yosemite National Park and the giant redwoods of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks, California is a must-visit. Enjoy breathtaking views without worrying about entrance fees on select days throughout the year.

2.Utah: With five stunning national parks known as “‘The Mighty 5,” Utah’s natural beauty is unmatched. From the arches and canyons to the rock formations of Zion, free entrance days give you one more reason to discover this state’s wonders.

3.Arizona: The Grand Canyon State offers awe-inspiring vistas at one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Take advantage of these special days to visit the Grand Canyon or explore Saguaro’s desert landscapes at no cost.

4.Wyoming: Iconic Yellowstone National Park spreads across three states, with the majority in Wyoming. It’s a fantastic location for wildlife spotting, geothermal features like Old Faithful, and vast wilderness areas.

5.Colorado: Rocky Mountain National Park provides an alpine experience with majestic mountains and clear lakes. Colorado’s diverse landscape also includes sand dunes and ancient cliff dwellings, which you can visit during free entrance days.

6.Washington: Olympic National Park offers a unique mix of coastal beaches, rain forests, and mountain environments. On fee-free days, try hiking part of its nearly one million acres or explore Mount Rainier’s snowy summit for free.

7.Florida: Get a taste of the tropics without leaving the U.S by visiting Everglades National Park on fee-free days. Here you can witness a myriad of wildlife in America’s largest subtropical wilderness.

8.Maine: Acadia National Park presents a blend of ocean coastline, forested mountains, lakes, and valleys to explore without an entrance fee on designated free entry days.

9.Tennessee/North Carolina: The Great Smoky Mountains straddle two states and is one of America’s most visited national parks due to its abundant plant and animal life, plus it’s always free to enter!

10.South Dakota: With majestic sculptures and mountain carvings at Mount Rushmore nearby, Badlands National Park offers spectacular terrain featuring layered rock formations, steep canyons, and sprawling grasslands on free park days.

Remember that even during free entry days, some parks may charge for parking or activities within the park boundaries. Check each park’s official website for specific information about fee-free dates and any other potential costs before planning your trip!