National Park Week 2022

After a long two years of the pandemic, I am excited that National Park Week is coming up and many parks are having in-person activities again! National Park Week is a special time to celebrate America’s National Parks. In 2022, National Park Week will be celebrated from April 16th-April 24th. The week kicks off with my favorite day, Junior Ranger Day. On this Saturday, Junior Rangers can usually find special activities and opportunities to earn junior ranger badges at National Park Service sites.

One of my favorite memories of National Park Week was when my family volunteered at Prince William Forest Park (VA). We went on a special hike and helped count the wildlife and learn about the animals inside the park.

This year each day has a special theme: (from the NPS website)

Saturday, April 16: sPark Discovery National Park Week kicks off with a fee-free day to encourage everyone to find something new by visiting a national park, especially one that may be close to home, a park you haven’t considered visiting, or one you never realized is a national park! What new national park will you discover?

Sunday, April 17: sPark Creativity National parks have inspired artistic expression and creativity for generations. What is your park muse? What masterpiece can you create? #sParkCuriosity

Monday, April 18: sPark Collaboration We get along with a little help from our friends. Meet our many partners that help expand our reach and offerings and connect people to parks. How can you get involved or participate in opportunities?

Tuesday, April 19: sPark Innovation The National Park Service incorporates the latest technology to support conservation and preservation efforts while consistently working to improve the visitor experience. How can we surprise you with innovation? #sParkInnovation

Wednesday, April 20: sPark Opportunities On Workforce Wednesday, learn about the work we do and the employment opportunities available in the National Park Service and with partner organizations. How can you join?

Thursday, April 21: sPark Preservation The National Park Service is a leader and partner in the preservation of historic, cultural, natural and recreational resources nationally—and even internationally! How can you get involved in preservation?

Friday, April 22: sPark Action On Earth Day we look at the health of the environment and how we impact its wellbeing and vice versa. What actions can you do to contribute to a healthy world? #sParkAction

Sunday, April 24: sPark Memories Generations of visitors have created lasting memories in national parks. What memories and traditions will you create?

Some parks are having events so take a look at the NPS website or contact the park you’re visiting for more information on events. https://www.nps.gov/subjects/npscelebrates/national-park-week.htm

See you in the park!