June is Pride Month, a time to celebrate love, identity, and the vibrant resilience of the LGBTQ+ community. While parades and parties are happening in cities across the country, America's public lands also offer unique and powerful spaces to honor Pride—not just in June, but year-round. From historic landmarks of LGBTQ+ activism to national parks that host Pride hikes and inclusive programming, the outdoors is for everyone.
Whether you're looking for a meaningful place to reflect, hike with fellow LGBTQ+ adventurers, or learn about queer history in the landscape of America’s parks, here are some incredible spots where Pride and public lands meet.
🗽 Stonewall National Monument (New York, NY)
The birthplace of Pride. Located in Greenwich Village, this small but mighty national monument marks the site of the 1969 Stonewall Uprising—a watershed moment in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Managed by the National Park Service, Stonewall is a pilgrimage site for anyone who wants to honor queer resistance and resilience.
Insider Tip: Visit in June to see community-led Pride events and storytelling gatherings. The monument is steps away from other queer historical landmarks—perfect for a walking tour.
🌲 Golden Gate National Recreation Area (San Francisco, CA)
San Francisco has long been a haven for LGBTQ+ communities, and its national recreation area reflects that spirit. In June, LGBTQ+ Pride hikes are organized by local rangers and outdoor groups, often exploring places like the Marin Headlands, Crissy Field, and Lands End.
Don’t Miss: The scenic Baker Beach is a beloved LGBTQ+ gathering spot with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
🏜️ Joshua Tree National Park (California)
Joshua Tree has quietly become a beloved destination for LGBTQ+ travelers, artists, and spiritual seekers. Its stark beauty and inclusive desert communities nearby (like Palm Springs and Yucca Valley) make it a Pride Month favorite.
Try This: Check for LGBTQ+ campouts or stargazing nights hosted by queer outdoor groups like Outdoorsy Gals or The Venture Out Project.
⛰️ Fire Island National Seashore (New York)
Fire Island has long been a sanctuary for LGBTQ+ people—especially in the Cherry Grove and Fire Island Pines communities. Part of the island is protected as a National Seashore, with gorgeous trails, beaches, and historic sites like the Sunken Forest.
Pro Tip: Combine nature with nightlife. You can hike all day and celebrate Pride with beach bonfires and dancing by night.
🛶 Gateway National Recreation Area (NY/NJ)
This diverse and sprawling coastal area includes parts of Staten Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and New Jersey—and is often the site of queer-led kayaking and nature programs in the summer. Many LGBTQ+ organizations partner with rangers for inclusive Pride paddles, birding events, and beach cleanups.
Why We Love It: It shows that urban nature spaces can be just as inclusive and celebratory as wilderness parks.
🏞️ Your Local Park or National Forest
Don't underestimate the power of local. Across the country, queer hiking clubs and Pride-themed outdoor events are popping up everywhere—from Appalachian forests to midwestern prairie parks.
Groups like:
- The Venture Out Project
- Queer Nature
- Latino Outdoors
- LGBT Outdoors
- Out There Adventures
…are redefining who belongs in the outdoors (spoiler: everyone).
Get Involved: Search for Pride hikes or queer campouts near you this June. Or organize your own walk or picnic with chosen family. Nature belongs to us all.
🌈 Pride in Every Park
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