Share the Experience 2026: America's Public Lands Photo Contest

Share the Experience is the official photography contest of America's national parks and federal recreational lands and waters. Now in its 20th year, it is run by the National Park Foundation and Booz Allen Hamilton with Recreation.gov and the federal land agencies. The 2026 contest is free, offers a $10,000 grand prize, and accepts entries until 31 December 2026, 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time.

The contest is open only to legal residents of the United States. Over 20 years, it has received more than 200,000 photos.

Categories

• History & Culture
• People & Recreation
• Scenery & Seasons
• Wildlife

Where Photos Must Be Taken

Photos must be taken between 1 January 2024 and 31 December 2026 on lands managed by one of the six federal recreation agencies, such as national parks, national forests and national wildlife refuges. State and city parks do not count unless the land is federally owned and managed in partnership. The organisers may ask for proof of when a photo was taken.

Prizes

• Grand prize: $10,000 and a prize package
• Four category winners: $2,000 each, a two-night stay at a Historic Hotels of America property, outdoor gear and an annual pass
• Four honourable mentions: an annual pass each
• Monthly winners: three each month receive an annual pass

The total retail value of all prizes is about $24,280.

Who Can Enter Share the Experience?

Legal residents of the 50 US states and Washington, D.C., aged 13 or over on 1 September 2026. Entrants under 18 need a parent or guardian's consent. The contest is aimed at amateur photographers. It suits:

• Hikers, campers and travellers who photograph public lands
• Wildlife and landscape photographers
• Families who visit national parks and forests

How to Enter

Upload your photos on the contest website and choose a category for each. You can submit up to 50 entries in the contest year. Photos must be your own work, and you must own the copyright.

Judging

A panel chosen by the sponsors selects winners on originality, composition, technical quality, photographic technique and how well a photo shows America's recreational opportunities.

Rights and Conditions

The official rules say that submitted entries become the property of the sponsors and will not be returned. Read the full rules on usage before you enter.

Tips for Strong Entries

The judges reward photos that show the best of America's public lands and the experiences they offer, so think beyond a classic view. A person on a trail, a family at a campsite or a ranger at work can tell a stronger story than an empty landscape. For wildlife, keep a safe distance, follow park rules and never bait or disturb animals. Shoot in early morning or late evening light, and check the horizon and focus before uploading. Choose the category that fits each photo best, and write a short, clear description of where and when it was taken. Because winners are picked each month as well as at the end, entering early gives your photos more chances.

Before You Upload

Check that each photo was taken on eligible federal land within the date range, and keep a note of the location and date in case the organisers ask.

Things to Consider

• US residents only.
• Photos from federal lands taken since 2024.
• Up to 50 entries.
• Deadline: 31 December 2026.

Enter the Contest

Have a favourite photo from a national park?

Enter Share the Experience

The full official rules are on the contest website.

Looking for more open calls? Browse all competitions and opportunities on Good Stuff Weekly.

Last verified: November 3, 2026