National Public Lands Day is the nation’s largest single-day volunteer event focused on caring for and celebrating public lands. Held every year on the fourth Saturday in September, it brings together individuals, families, organizations, and agencies to help protect and improve the outdoor spaces we all share.
Why Public Lands Matter
Public lands include national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, monuments, grasslands, marine sanctuaries, lakes, and local parks. These spaces provide opportunities for recreation, education, conservation, and connecting with nature.
How You Can Get Involved
There are many ways to take part in National Public Lands Day:
- Volunteer at a local park or public land site.
- Join a community cleanup or restoration project.
- Help plant trees or restore natural habitats.
- Learn more about local wildlife and biodiversity.
- Visit and explore a public park or natural area.
- Encourage family and friends to participate in environmental service.
The 2026 theme is “Caring for Our Shared America,” recognizing the importance of protecting the public lands that communities across the country share.
Learn More:
https://www.neefusa.org/what-we-do/conservation/national-public-lands-day