10 Ways to Support Our National Parks

For those who have a passion for our National Parks, but aren’t quite sure how to contribute to protecting and supporting them, there are several ways to do so. It’s one thing to visit the parks and enjoy them for what they are, and it’s another thing to truly get in and get your hands dirty protecting and supporting them. Check out ten ways to help support our national parks. 

Donate Time 

Time is the best give you can give – especially to the National Parks. As a volunteer, you can contribute to improving the trails, remove waste and help keep the grounds clean. To become a volunteer, we recommend contacting a national park site or land nearby to ask how you can donate your time.

Donate Money

If you don’t have the time to give, you can always donate money! You have the option to make a one-time donation or commit to a recurring monthly or annual gift. By donating to the National Park Foundation, your funds will help preserve hundreds of historic and national wonders across the U.S. 

Make a Purchase

Making a purchase means you can buy any park gear available! From clothing and tote bags to board games and books, the online store on the National Park Foundation website has something for every national parks enthusiast.

Go on a Trip

The National Park Service takes care of more than 400 national parks and lands that are open to the public. Just by visiting and exploring a park you are helping support the agency. By purchasing a day pass or an annual America The Beautiful pass, you can make a difference. Plus, by visiting a park you’ll learn about the history and geology of these special places, and sharing that knowledge can inspire others to follow in your footsteps. 

Create Park Inspired Art 

The National Park Service has protected the unique wonders of our nation for over 100 years, but they have been inspiring artists for much longer. No matter what medium you prefer, your art can support our national parks by celebrating their beauty and inspiring others to support them as well. 

Eat Trail Series Bars

There’s no more delicious way to support our national parks than with the Trail Series chocolate bars from Salazon Chocolate Co. Each of the three flavors is inspired by one of the National Scenic Trails. When you opt for a taste of the Appalachian, Pacific Crest and Continental Divide trails, a portion of your proceeds are donated to their organizations.

Start a Fundraiser

If the protection of our natural parks, diverse lands and ecosystems are significant to you, then you may be inclined to create a fundraiser to support the NPS. It’s easier than you think to create a 5K walking event, an online crowdfunding campaign, a special sale or a fundraiser and donate the proceeds to the National Park Foundation.

Start Your Career

If you’re looking to make your love of parks part of your daily life, you could pursue a career as a park ranger. Whether you’re looking for your first job or making a career change that fuels your soul, the National Park Service offers abundant employment opportunities. 

Support Pro-Parks Legislation

As a government agency, it’s essential that our elected officials support the National Park Service. Stay apprised of issues that may impact the national parks, and share your opinion with your state representatives and senators. Call or write to your elected officials to let them know that the protection of our national parks is a priority for you. 

Spread the Word

Day Trip from NYC to @FireIslandNPS National Seashore https://t.co/znoa8FKDLV

— Drive The Nation (@DriveTheNation) April 6, 2017

Finally, you should tell others that you support our national parks. Post about the national parks, share photos and follow the National Park Service accounts on social media. When you share your love and support for a national park online, you can inspire an appreciation and respect for our entire national park system.

Do you currently do anything to help support a National Park? We’d love to know about it! Tell us about it in the comments.