On this day in 1916, President Woodrow Wilson signed what is now called the Organic Act. This established the National Park Service. It protects 400 areas in 50 states, U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia, totaling 84 million acres. On July 25th, we celebrate the National Park Service and its important conservation and preservation work. The National Park Service is a government agency that manages or assists in managing parklands and recreational areas. This federal agency offers a variety of outdoor experiences such as hiking, biking, and boating. The National Park Service gives us access to millions of acres of beautiful places, and it takes us back in time. The Underground Railroad is a great example. A trail along the Underground Railroad lets us walk in the footsteps of Harriet Tubman, who helped free men and women from slavery. Another trail in Ohio shows us how people lived long ago. Majestic animals and glorious sunsets are part of America’s heritage. They are in our own backyard, too! They are a perfect place to start your adventures. Once you get started, you won’t want to stop. Make a list and keep going.

National Park Service Founder's Day Is Celebrated On August 25th.

In 1916, President Wilson signed a law that created the National Park Service. It became a part of the Department of Interior and had 35 parks and monuments under its jurisdiction.