Get free entrance to Joshua Tree National Park this weekend

National parks are waiving entrance fees to celebrate Presidents’ Day weekend.

Park officials at Joshua Tree National Park said free admission, warmer weather, longer days and fewer crowds make it a great time to visit a national park.

Admission will be free from Saturday, February 15, to Monday, February 17.

Presidents’ Day weekend is generally the start of the busy spring season at Joshua Tree National Park. Campgrounds are expected to be full this weekend so visitors should plan to come early if they want to spend some time overnight, officials said.

They also said spring weather can be unpredictable, so if you’re planning on visiting, always take plenty of water, use sunscreen, wear a hat and layer your clothing to prepare for changes in weather.

Most campgrounds and picnic areas don’t have water for visitors to use, but water is available at visitor centers and at Black Rock and Cottonwood Campgrounds as well as the Indian Cove Ranger Station, park officials said.

Additional dates for free entrance to national parks:

April 19-20: National Park Week’s opening weekend
August 25: National Park Service’s 98th birthday
September 27: National Public Lands Day
November 11: Veterans Day

However, fees will still be applied for camping, reservations, tours and concessions.