As a wildlife photographer, I spend a lot of time exploring our country’s public lands in search of wildlife and natural scenes. Places like national parks, forests, monuments, and wildlife refuges are more than just scenic areas. They protect our natural heritage and give us a chance to get outside, explore, and stay connected to the outdoors.
Spending National Public Lands Day at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge
Today, September 23rd, is National Public Lands Day. I’m spending it at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. I’m photographing wildlife across its wetlands and backwaters.
This 20,000-acre refuge protects critical habitat along the Arkansas and Canadian Rivers. It supports more than 240 species of birds and a wide range of other wildlife. It’s also an important stop for migratory birds.
It’s one of the best places I know to observe species that can be hard to find elsewhere.
Free Access to Public Lands on National Public Lands Day
The best part of National Public Lands Day is that admission to any national public land is completely free today. That means you can get out into these spaces and join in the celebration too, even if you don’t usually have the means. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the opportunity to connect with nature and each other in our shared public spaces today.
Respecting Wildlife and Protecting Public Lands
As you explore your public lands, remember to leave no trace, stay on designated trails, and be respectful of the wildlife, resources and other visitors you encounter. With over 640 million acres of public lands across the country, there are endless adventures to be had, on National Public Lands Day and every day. Our public lands are American treasures that I feel so fortunate to experience through my photography. I hope you’ll join me in celebrating them today!
Let me know in the comments if you get out to enjoy a public land today, and feel free to share your photos! I’d love to see how you’re celebrating National Public Lands Day.
Steve Creek, Wildlife Photographer