I Love My State Parks Week
The United States defines up to 10,000 different areas as state parks. State parks protect more than 14 million acres of landscape, ranging from coastal beaches to forests, sandy deserts to swampland.
Activate outdoor recreation and eco-tourism brands during peak spring travel season by positioning state parks as accessible adventure destinations and community gathering spaces.
- Share user-generated photos from state park adventures with branded hashtags to drive social engagement and inspire visitation
- Partner with outdoor gear retailers and hospitality brands to offer exclusive discounts or packages tied to state park activities (camping, boating, hiking)
- Create volunteer spotlights and community impact stories to build brand affinity with eco-conscious and socially-minded audiences
- Develop educational content about lesser-known state parks and seasonal activities to drive discovery and repeat visitation
Kicking off in early May, this event is always celebrated starting on Mother’s Day and continuing throughout that week. It was started by the National Association for State Park Foundations (NASPF), a charity that works to support the unique needs and concerns of state parks. The inaugural event was in 2022 and the hope is that it will grow in popularity in the years to come!
Share the Love of State Parks
Let others know how amazing state parks are and allow them to share in the joy of I Love My State Parks Week! Invite a friend along to visit a state park, whether going on a hike, canoeing down the river, or enjoying a mountain view. Take some photos while there, and then don’t forget to post them online so more people know about the week and can get involved.
Get Active at State Parks
Depending on their location, state parks will offer a wide range of outdoor activities and sports that can be enjoyed. The list is a long one that includes things to do such as boating, fishing, stand up paddle boarding (SUP), camping, cultural tools, bicycling, backpacking, swimming and so much more. Don’t miss out during I Love My State Parks Week, and check out the plethora of adventures that await!
Volunteer at a State Park
Join in on the fun and make a difference too by signing up to volunteer at a park in honor of I Love My State Parks Week. Sign up to be a greeter, help out at special events, take guests on tours, perform important cleanup work and more. Contact the local state park through their website and find out exactly what needs they have for volunteers, whether just one time or on a regular basis.
Raise Awareness for State Parks
The NASPF wants to make it possible for anyone – concerned citizens, businesses, scout troops, schools, and so many others in the community – to get involved with and show support for I Love My State Parks Week. The organization’s website offers free access to various tools, including social media logos and a social media toolkit.