Perdido Key, Fla. – (OBA) – The United States National Park System is a vast collection of protected lands and seas. While the National Park Service (NPS) oversees a network of over 433 distinct parks, including battlefields, monuments, seashores, and preserves. There are 63 National Parks in the United States. The first National Park in the United States — and the world — was Yellowstone National Park, established on March 1, 1872. 

Ninety-nine years later, the Gulf Islands National Seashore was established by the U.S. Congress on January 8, 1971, to preserve areas possessing outstanding natural, historic, and recreational values for public use and enjoyment.​

This Saturday, April 19, 2025, marks the first day of National Park Week, and to celebrate, the National Park Service is offering free entrance to all national parks, including the Gulf Islands National Seashore. This is a fantastic opportunity for residents and visitors along the Gulf Coast to explore the natural beauty and historical significance of the seashore without the usual entrance fees.

Explore Gulf Islands National Seashore

Spanning the coastal regions of Florida and Mississippi, the Gulf Islands National Seashore boasts pristine white-sand beaches, historic forts, and diverse wildlife habitats. Notable areas include Fort Pickens, Perdido Key, and the Santa Rosa and Okaloosa areas. Typically, entrance fees range from $15 per person to $25 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. However, on designated fee-free days, these entrance fees are waived, allowing everyone to enjoy the park's offerings at no cost. In our area, Johnson Beach on Perdido Key is the closest National Park to Orange Beach. 

Special Events on April 19

In addition to free entry, Gulf Islands National Seashore will host various free activities suitable for all ages on April 19. Visitors can participate in ranger-led programs, educational exhibits, and family-friendly events designed to enhance the park experience. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or simply enjoying the scenic views, there's something for everyone.

Upcoming Free Entrance Days in 2025

If you can't make it this Saturday, there are several other opportunities to visit national parks for free this year:

• June 19 – Juneteenth National Independence Day
  
• August 4 – Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
  
• September 27 – National Public Lands Day
  
• November 11 – Veterans Day
  
  

These fee-free days are perfect for planning future visits to Gulf Islands National Seashore or exploring other national parks across the country.

For more information on park hours, specific event schedules, and tips for making the most of your visit, check out the Gulf Islands National Seashore's official Instagram page and Facebook page. Don't miss this chance to experience the natural and historical treasures of the Gulf Coast for free!