National Public Lands Day 2023: Celebrating 30 Years of Care & Community

National Public Lands Day (NPLD) is the largest one-day volunteer event in the U.S., highlighting the bond between individuals and their community’s green spaces.

Instituted in 1994, this special day promotes the appreciation of open spaces for educational, recreational, and health purposes, and inspires environmental stewardship.

History & Organizers:
Organized annually by the National Environmental Education Foundation in collaboration with the National Park Service and other federal agencies, NPLD has seen hundreds of thousands of volunteers dedicatedly working towards the restoration and preservation of public lands. From monumental national parks to local urban parks, NPLD welcomes every nature lover to express gratitude towards the environment.

2023 Special Theme:
Celebrating its 30th year, the theme “30 Years of Care and Community” is a testament to the enduring legacy and significance of NPLD.

How to Participate:

• Fee-Free Day: Embrace the beauty of a national park without any entrance fees.
• Volunteer: Engage in a volunteer project at a national park. Some projects may reward participants with a fee-free day coupon for future use. Find a project near you by visiting Volunteer.gov and searching for National Public Lands Day events.
• Embrace Outdoor Activities: Whether it’s a leisurely walk, a challenging hike, or simply enjoying nature, make the most of the day outdoors.
• Share Your Experience: Chronicle your outdoor activities on social platforms using #NPLD, #NPSVolunteer, and #MyParkStory.

Why Join:
It’s not just about preserving the environment. It’s about cherishing the memories, adventures, and lessons these public lands offer. It’s about building a community of like-minded individuals passionate about the earth. This National Public Lands Day, make a difference by giving back to the lands that have given us so much.