Officials at Yellowstone National Park have shared a list of tips for visiting over the Independence Day weekend. However, the best tip was saved for last; Yellowstone is free this weekend for U.S. residents from July 3-5. That’s the kind of news you lead with. Everybody likes free admission.

They chose to lead with “packing your patience” for the busiest weekend of the year. And, as usual, they have a good point. But, nowhere in the list of tips do they advise visitors to show up early, relax during the day on a hike or at your favorite viewing pullout, and leaving late. The plan helps keep you sane while sometimes insane vacationeers can be frustrating.

The best news about the locals? Most will never be more than 100 feet from their vehicles and many have breakfast and dinner reservations that keep them off park roads until later in the morning and leave park roads early for din din.

Other news you can use is the relative peace you can find near the East and Northeast entrances, which have fairly easy access to folks from the Big Horn Basin and those starting their trips in Powell, Cody or Sliver Gate/Cooke City. Fewer folks enter the park at these two gates and gridlock is rare unless a grizzly bear decides to hunt down a critter near the road or bison decide to walk the road in large groups.

Yellowstone officials would also like you to protect yourself and the park while visiting. The No. 1 tip relative to the dates; leave fireworks at home. Fireworks are not allowed in Yellowstone where even a single spark can ignite a wildfire.

That also means, if you’re camping, never leave your campfire unattended and always check to ensure it’s cold to the touch before leaving: Soak, stir, feel, and repeat, rangers suggest.   Campfires are only permitted within established fire rings in campgrounds and some backcountry campsites in Yellowstone.

You should also check current fire conditions. The current fire danger level in the park is moderate, but that could change at any time based on conditions. Plan your activities accordingly. If you see smoke or fire in the park, please report it to rangers or call 911.

The biggest danger in the park is vehicles. Traffic-related accidents are a common cause of human injury and fatality in the park. Be responsible and do not drive under the influence of alcohol or substances. Observe posted speed limits and do not stop your vehicle in the road. Use pullouts to watch wildlife, take pictures, and let other cars pass. When pulling over, be sure to park with all four tires fully to the right of the white line. Pack your patience and allow plenty of time to travel through the park during this busiest time of year.

Also, a general rule locals know all too well is to give those in front of you plenty of room. Vacationers can lay on their brakes without warning when wildlife is near. Running into the back of someone has a way of ruining your day, no matter the date.

Other roadway issues this year include construction. Road improvement projects may cause temporary closures and traffic delays. Stay informed about current road conditions in Yellowstone:  

Visit go.nps.gov/YELLroads. Or call (307) 344-2117 for recorded information. You can also receive Yellowstone road alerts on your mobile phone by texting “82190” to 888-777 (an automatic text reply will confirm receipt and provide instructions) 

Finally, protect the park and its native wildlife by staying on boardwalks and giving wildlife a wide birth. Unless you’re hoping to be trampled by a moose with a calf, tossed by a bison near the species’ rut, or opened like a can of peaches by a bear, big cat, wolf or other toothy beast, then give wildlife a wide berth. Officials want to remind you that it’s your responsibility to respect safety regulations and view wildlife from a safe distance. Wild animals are dangerous if you get too close. People have been injured or killed by bears, bison and elk. Always maintain a minimum of 100 yards from bears, wolves, and cougars and 25 yards from all other wildlife.

If an animal moves closer to you, back away to maintain safe viewing distances. If a bear approaches your vehicle, honk the horn and slowly drive away. Above all, follow instructions from park rangers.

Plan ahead for all trips to the park. All campgrounds and lodging require a reservation and fill up well in advance of the Independence Day holiday weekend. Operating hours and service levels can change with little notice. Check the latest information before coming to the park, including operating dates, current conditions, logistics, what you want to see and do, purchasing fishing permits and adhere to the regulations on boat inspections and permits. It’s also good to prepare for adverse weather conditions.

Unpredictability characterizes Yellowstone’s weather. While summers can be hot and dry, expect big temperature swings, rain, or even snow. Bring water to stay hydrated, a warm jacket, rain gear, and lots of layers. Check current weather current conditions several times before arriving. The weather can and will change in a heartbeat in the Cowboy State.

Additionally, if you really want to share your love for Yellowstone, officials ask that you consider taking the  Yellowstone Pledge.

“Encourage your friends and family to do the same and share your photos with us online using  hashtag #YellowstonePledge. Have a safe and happy Independence Day!,” shares a Friday press release from the Public Affairs Office.