Free Entry to Colorado’s National Parks This Saturday

Looking back on 2025, I still cannot believe that we haven't taken an adventure into Rocky Mountain National Park this year. While there still may be a few months left in 2025, it is highly unusual that we have not been to what is arguably one of the best national parks in the United States.

Free National Park Day in Colorado

If you're like me and haven't visited a national park this year, Saturday would be the perfect time to take the day off and go, as admission to all national parks will be free in honor of National Public Lands Day.

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Colorado is home to four national parks, including Rocky Mountain National Park, Mesa Verde National Park, Great Sand Dunes National Park, and the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park.

READ MORE: 10 Tips for Visiting Colorado’s National Parks This Year

We all know that Rocky Mountain National Park is the closest to Northern Colorado, but if you want to check out one of the other national parks in Colorado, it may be worth the drive.

Timed Entry Reservations Still Required

To get into Rocky Mountain National Park, visitors will still need a timed entry reservation, depending on when they would like to go. For those early risers who want to get a jump on the day, reservations are not needed if you enter the park before 9 a.m. or decide to go later in the day after 2 p.m.

READ MORE: Rocky Mountain National Park Sets New Visitor Record

Visitors who want to visit Bear Lake Road in Rocky Mountain National Park will have to get to the entrance extra early, as the timed-entry reservation requirement kicks in at 5 a.m. and lasts until 6 p.m.

How to Reserve Your Free Park Entry Spot

Check to see if there are any available timed-entry reservations for Rocky Mountain National Park by visiting recreation.gov. Reservations are free; however, there is a $2 processing fee that you will have to pay to complete the reservation.