Yellowstone National Park offering free admission for Fourth of July Weekend

YELLOWSTONE, WY (KIFI) - With free admission for U.S. residents from July 3 through July 5, Yellowstone expects especially heavy crowds this weekend at entrance stations, popular attractions, road construction zones, and wildlife viewing areas. If you're planning to celebrate Independence Day in Yellowstone National Park, officials are encouraging visitors to plan ahead as one of the park's busiest weekends of the year gets underway.

Leave the fireworks at home

Fireworks are prohibited throughout Yellowstone and all national parks. National Park Service officials say even a single spark can ignite a large wildfire, especially during the busy summer season and ongoing drought conditions.

Instead of fireworks, visitors are encouraged to enjoy the park's natural attractions, including geysers, waterfalls, wildlife, and scenic landscapes.

Practice campfire safety

Campfires are only allowed in designated fire rings within campgrounds and some backcountry campsites. Before leaving a campfire, park officials recommend following the "Soak, Stir, Feel, Repeat" method to make sure the fire is completely extinguished and cold to the touch.

The park's current fire danger level is moderate, though officials say conditions can change quickly. Anyone who sees smoke or fire should notify a park ranger or call 911.

Expect delays and drive carefully

Traffic is expected to be heavy throughout the holiday weekend. Visitors should allow extra travel time, obey posted speed limits, and never stop in the roadway to view wildlife. Instead, use designated pullouts and make sure all four tires are completely to the right of the white line when parking.

Officials also remind drivers never to operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. DUI enforcement will be implemented by law enforcement around the region for the holiday weekend.

Give wildlife plenty of space

Don't pet the fluffy cows.

Yellowstone's wildlife is one of its biggest attractions, but it can also be dangerous. Visitors must stay at least 100 yards away from bears, wolves, and cougars, and 25 yards from all other wildlife, including bison and elk.

If an animal approaches, visitors should slowly back away to maintain a safe distance.

Stay on boardwalks

Park officials also remind visitors to remain on designated boardwalks and trails in thermal areas. Leaving boardwalks can result in serious injury or death from thin ground and scalding hot springs.

Plan before you go

Because campgrounds and lodging often fill months in advance, visitors should confirm reservations before arriving. Should park lodging be full, visitors can find

Officials also recommend checking current road conditions, weather forecasts, and operating hours before entering the park. Summer weather in Yellowstone can change rapidly, with warm sunshine giving way to rain—or even snow—within hours.

Visitors should bring plenty of water, rain gear, warm clothing, and extra layers.

For the latest road conditions, lodging information, and park updates, visitors can check Yellowstone National Park's official website before traveling.

Park officials say patience and preparation will help visitors enjoy a safe holiday while protecting one of America's most iconic national parks.