National Park Week Is April 19-27

Every year the National Park Service dedicates an entire week to our nation's 401 national parks. This year's celebration will take place from April 19-27 featuring special events at each park all week long

With free admission being offered at all national parks on April 19 and 20, whether it's a local day trip or a faraway escapade, there's no better time to take advantage of all the National Park System has to offer.

Special events during the week-long celebration will highlight everything from nature and wildlife to history and culture.

A few of the scheduled events include a gap cave tour in Cumberland Gap National Historical Park, a historic weapons demonstration at the Castillo De San Marcos National Monument, hands on activities featuring the "wild things" of Great Smoky Mountain National Park, and National Junior Ranger Day activities on April 26 where kids will have the opportunity to be sworn in as junior rangers at many of the nation's parks.

The National Park Service has provided plenty of online resources to help travelers plan out trips, including a database that will allow you to search for park events based on specific interests.

The National Park Foundation also offers a free Owner's Guide that (among other resources) includes hiking trail recommendations, family friendly trip ideas, and romantic getaway suggestions.

The foundation is also using the promotional event to encourage visitors to give back. In addition to celebrating National Park Week this month, you can further support our nation's park system by joining the National Park Foundation or volunteering your time by serving as a nature walk guide or assisting with park preservation.