Please read the Official Contest Rules here and find Frequently Asked Questions here.
Please note, only photos taken on the lands, waters or within facilities of the participating federal agencies are qualified. Photos submitted featuring city or state lands and waters will be rejected.
We’re seeking amazing photos from amateur photographers that highlight the best of America's federal public lands and waters in the following categories*:
Outdoors for All
Demonstrate how public lands welcome and connect us all by highlighting the diversity of locations, activities, and visitors. This category spotlights people, of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities, exploring and enjoying the spectrum of experiences available at our public lands and waters.
Everyday Adventures
An incredible experience doesn’t require visiting an iconic destination. Adventure can be found in the everyday. Discover new places and capture activities and imagery from lesser-known public lands and waters across the country.
History & Heritage
From monuments and battlefields to re-enactments and cultural celebrations, this category is meant to showcase the rich history and diversity of the United States and the special places and traditions that preserve and promote them.
Scenery & Seasons
The scenic vistas, sweeping landscapes, and beautiful flora of public lands can be found in far-off locales or closer to home than you think - capture fall foliage, forests, winter wonderlands, flowers, mountains, deserts, canyons, lakes, seashores, rivers and more.
Wildlife
Take a walk on the wild side with photos of the incredible array of animals that call federal lands and waters home. Remember to always keep your distance and stay safe!
Night Skies
Starlight and starbright, capture the magic of a night out under the stars. Slow the shutter speed down and see what develops! Remember to stay in designated areas and follow all guidelines about hours for visitation.
*Please Note: It is not uncommon for photos to fall into multiple categories; however, each photo can only be entered once – so choose your category wisely! An overwhelming amount of entries are submitted to Scenery & Seasons, while great categories like Outdoors for All and History & Heritage receive fewer entries overall. Each category has such potential, so be intentional and creative when choosing your photo category!
Photos must be taken on the lands, waters, or within the facilities of these participating agencies:
Photos submitted featuring city or state lands and waters will be rejected.
For the 2023 photo contest, photographs taken between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2023 will be accepted during the contest Promotion Period from June 15, 2023 to December 31, 2023. Winners will be announced Spring /Summer 2024. Photos taken prior to 2021 will be disqualified and any photo submitted outside the Promotion Period will be rejected.
Photos will be judged on the following criteria:
Above all, please enjoy your experience and remember to share it with us and tell your friends!