Share the Experience 2026 Photo Contest: win $10,000 and national parks prizes

What you can win

Grand prize: $10,000 cash plus hotel, gear and annual federal lands pass

Share the Experience is the long-running federal-lands photo contest that rewards standout images with cash, annual passes and outdoor-related prize packages. The 2026 edition accepts entries through the end of December and is judged on creative and technical merit.

How to enter

1. Visit the official contest site and go to the Picter submission platform.
2. Upload your eligible photos, choose the correct category information and complete the submission details.
3. Submit all entries by December 31, 2026 and keep an eye on your email for any winner-verification messages.

Before you enter

• This is a skill contest judged on originality, composition, technical quality, photographic technique and fit with the contest theme.
• The prize pool includes one grand prize, four category prizes, honorable mentions and monthly prizes.
• Annual winners are expected to be selected around April 30, 2027.

Why it stands out

• The grand prize combines USD 10,000 cash with additional travel and outdoor-oriented benefits.
• Entrants can submit up to 50 photos, which is unusually generous for a major contest.
• The competition rewards both annual winners and monthly winners, increasing the number of ways to place.
• Eligibility begins at age 13, but minors need consent and all photos must be original and properly authorized.
• Judged criteria are published clearly, so entrants can align their submissions with the evaluation framework.