Celebrating America's 250th Anniversary
Home / Articles / Celebrating America's 250th AnniversaryDid you know July 4, 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence? That’s worth celebrating! Whether you’re dreaming of a long weekend away, a day trip to a historic site, or taking advantage of fee-free days, Recreation.gov is your one-stop shop to plan and reserve your trips to America’s public lands and waters.
Turn the map into memories this monumental year!
If you ask us, now is the perfect time to explore the public lands, historic sites, and outdoor destinations that bring our shared history to life. Be sure to leave extra time to plan and prepare for your trips this monumental year. Research the destination(s) you have in mind in advance and read the Need to Know information on the location’s Recreation.gov page for any special events or considerations.
Booking windows for many camping locations are already open for Independence Day Weekend. You might also consider weaving in trips throughout the spring, summer, and fall to meet fewer crowds and spend quality time with family and friends. If you have flexibility, find camping using the search feature and the "I'm Flexible" toggle in the calendar view on Recreation.gov to broaden your search and find availability across incredible campsites.
If a campsite you're interested in is reserved on the dates you're looking to go, set an availability alert through your Recreation.gov account and you can get notified via email or mobile app notification (if enabled) if your desired spot opens up.
Minute Man National Historical Park (Amanda Pollock, National Park Service)
If you’re not sure where to start, check out our recommendations for must-see monuments, incredible hikes, spring break destinations, and more. As you plan your trips, use Recreation.gov to discover hidden gems such as historic sites, battlefields, recreation areas, and other landmarks. Chances are, there’s one nearby with a story to tell.