Start planning your summer 2026 national park trips
Do you want to commemorate history in a national park this summer? Do you want to explore an underground world? Does your dream national park experience involve floating down a river, spending a day on the lake, or enjoying a sunset on the beach?
It’s time to start planning a fun and sun-filled summer vacation, so check out our suggestions for national parks you’ll want to visit.
Celebrate the anniversary of the Golden Spike Ceremony
Every year Golden Spike National Historical Park commemorates the completion of the first transcontinental railroad, which took place here on May 10, 1869. The festivities tell the stories of the many cultural groups and communities that were forever transformed by the creation and arrival of the railroad.
Commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Battle of the Little Bighorn
Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument will commemorate the 150th anniversary of this event from June 25 through June 27, 2026. The park preserves where the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Arapaho fought to defend their traditional ways of life on June 25 and 26, 1876 at the Battle of the Little Bighorn. The park is currently in the process of planning events for this historical anniversary. Be sure to reach out to the park for more details.
Commemoration at Port Chicago
Every year Port Chicago Naval Magazine Memorial honors those who lost their lives in the tragic explosion of July 17, 1944, the most deadly home front disaster of World War II. The annual commemoration is a time to reflect on this somber event and its aftermath, which hold great historical significance and were important moments in the Civil Rights movement. The park will announce the date of the 2026 commemoration and open registration in May 2026. Check with the park for additional details.
Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Celebration
The Nicodemus Homecoming Emancipation Group, in partnership with Nicodemus National Historic Site and the National Park Service, will host its annual homecoming festivities July 30 through August 2, 2026. This event is attended by the descendants of those who first established the town. Join in the celebration and celebrate the legacy of the first and only remaining Black settlement established west of the Mississippi.
America 250
The 250th anniversary of the US is July 4, 2026—so why not spend this once-in-a-lifetime event in a national park?
Explore an underground world at Timpanogos Cave
Just outside of Salt Lake City, Utah, is an underground world unlike anywhere else on Earth. Timpanogos Cave National Monument protects a unique cave system known for its colorful formations, including its unique and delicate helictites. Visitors can only tour this cave system during the summer months, when the road to the park is free of snow. Make your reservations now for this special experience.
Splash in a national park this summer
These national parks are perfect for a day on the water.
Lake Mead National Recreation Area
Just a 40-minute drive from the heart of Las Vegas, Lake Mead has over 290 square miles of waterways, 10 beaches, and two paddling trails.
Amistad National Recreation Area
Amistad is a world-class fishing destination and boater’s paradise. Enjoy one of seven unmarked paddling trails, go scuba diving, and enjoy one of the many campgrounds.
Padre Island National Seashore
Padre Island has 66 miles of beautiful beaches to explore. Contact the park for more information on how to witness a sea turtle hatchling release during the summer.
Chickasaw National Recreation Area
This hidden gem park in Oklahoma is a biodiverse hiking and boating destination. Spend a day boating at the Lake of the Arbuckles or Veterans Lake, or swim in Travertine Creek.
1 of
However, you choose to spend time in a national park this summer, you’re sure to have a memorable adventure. Start planning your trip today.
By Nikki Stavile
