#United States #Washington #National Park Trust #ParkPassport #Kids to Parks Day

National Park Trust Commemorates 15th Annual Kids to Parks Day

On May 17, 2025, the National Park Trust is set to celebrate the remarkable milestone of the 15th anniversary of Kids to Parks Day. This grassroots movement encourages children and families to discover, explore, and appreciate the beauty and significance of local, state, and national parks across the United States. Alongside this celebration, the organization is thrilled to introduce its updated ParkPassport mobile application, designed to make park exploration easier and more enjoyable.

Kids to Parks Day was initiated to promote outdoor activity and foster a deep-rooted connection with nature among the younger generation. Over the years, it has garnered tremendous support from various communities. Grace Lee, the executive director of National Park Trust, remarked, “We know that kids need parks, and parks need kids. For 15 years, Kids to Parks Day has inspired families to get outside, connect with nature, and support the parks they love.”

The initiative has continuously grown in participation, with events held in towns and cities nationwide. Each year, the U.S. Senate has passed bipartisan resolutions to endorse Kids to Parks Day, emphasizing its importance in encouraging children to engage with their environment. Millions of kids, along with their families, have taken part in diverse park activities, which not only contribute to their well-being but also instill a sense of responsibility towards guarding these public lands.

As children's health remains a priority, spending time outdoors is vital for their physical and mental well-being. Lee noted, “Spending time enjoying our public lands and parks plays a vital role in children's health and well-being. We also believe that kids who grow up exploring parks are more likely to become the future stewards these spaces need to thrive.” This sentiment reinforces the belief that nurturing a love for natural spaces in young minds will lead to lifelong stewardship.

The updated ParkPassport app will enhance users' experiences by helping them locate nearby parks or national marine sanctuaries and earn badges as they explore these outdoor spaces. The app is a valuable resource for families looking to engage in park activities, providing information to fuel a sense of adventure and discovery.

To mark this special day, families and individuals can access a variety of resources, including free park activity guides appropriate for all ages, available on parktrust.org/kids-to-parks-day. This initiative aims to inspire excitement about parks and encourage everyone to celebrate and cherish these natural havens.

About the National Park Trust

The National Park Trust has been dedicated to preserving parks while nurturing future park stewards since 1983. The organization has played a crucial role in acquiring vital sections of national parks, positively impacting numerous sites across the country. Through various educational programs and initiatives, such as the Buddy Bison Program and College Ambassador initiative, the Trust continues to serve thousands of children annually, preparing them to become responsible stewards of the environment. For more information on their efforts and initiatives, visit parktrust.org.

As we approach the 15th anniversary of Kids to Parks Day, let us encourage our children to appreciate the great outdoors, the adventures that await them, and the importance of caring for the parks that we love. Together, we can ensure that future generations not only experience the joy of nature but also stand as proud guardians of our nation’s parks.