Presidents Day was Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area’s National Park Service first fee-free day of 2026.
On fee-free days, Big South Fork authorizes a 50% discount on backcountry camping permits for one day.
“Although Big South Fork does not charge an entrance fee, backcountry camping permits are widely popular and provide visitors with the opportunity to experience the park’s remote landscapes, scenic night skies, and diverse recreational opportunities,” said Christopher Derman, chief of interpretation and education at the Big South Fork. “Visitors may enjoy backcountry camping while hiking, biking, horseback riding, or river rafting throughout the park. The discounted permit is intended to encourage broader access to these experiences.”
Other 2026 fee-free days include:
May 25. Memorial Day
June 14. Flag Day/President Trump’s Birthday
July 3-5. Independence Day Weekend
Aug. 25. 110th anniversary of the National Park Service
Sept. 17. Constitution Day
Oct. 27. Theodore Roosevelt’s Birthday
Nov. 11. Veterans Day
Visit www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/fee-free-parks.htm to learn more.
For additional information about visiting Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area, visit www.nps.gov/biso or call 423-569-9778.
National Park Service employees care for more than 430 of America’s national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities.