How To Visit National Parks For Free In 2022 (& Beyond)
Visiting America’s National Parks is an amazing way to experience recreational opportunities and educational programs. If you’re ready to take off for that summer road trip, you’re probably considering visiting at least one. The thing is, Park entrance fees can cost over $30 per park, and if you’re visiting multiple, that easily adds up. There are a few ways to get in at no cost, including free entry for some elementary school students and for those who have served. Here are four ways you may eligible to enter these amazing spaces for free.
Get An Access Pass:
The America the Beautiful Access Pass grants free, lifetime access to people with permanent disabilities. Applicants must provide documentation of their permanent disability, along with proof of U.S. residency or citizenship. We got our pass over a year ago because of Sam's hearing loss. Others in the outdoor community have been able to get this pass because of mobility issues, neurodevelopmental disorders, and blindness. You can find out if you qualify the next time you visit a park, or by checking the National Park Service accessibility page on their website.
Claim Your Military Pass:
The America the Beautiful Military Pass grants free, lifetime access to current U.S. military members and their dependents in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, Space Force, as well as Reserve and National Guard members. U.S. military veterans and Gold Star Family members are also eligible for this pass. Applicants must show proper documentation, such as DD 1173 or DoD CAC card, to get access to this benefit. For more information on eligibility, visit the ‘Plan Your Visit’ page on the NPS website for qualifications.
Travel With Your 4th Grader:
As part of the Every Kid Outdoors program, 4th graders and their families are able to get this free pass for the duration of the school year through the following summer (through August 31). Get your paper voucher online today by visiting EveryKidOutdoors.gov and filling out their simple form.
Visit On Free Entrance Days:
Each year, the National Park Service announces fee-free days. For 2022, these are the remaining free-entrance days:
Aug. 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act.
Aug. 25: National Park Service Anniversary.
Sept. 25: National Public Lands Day.
Nov. 11: Veterans Day.
It’s important to note that while entrance fees are waived on these days, campgrounds, hiking permits, and other fee-based activities may still require payment.
For general information about these pass-types, visit the USGS Store for frequently asked questions. These passes can be conveniently purchased online for a $10 fee, or obtained in person for free.
Other Low-Cost Ways to Enjoy The Parks:
Don’t qualify for free entry? There are other ways to save while visiting National Parks including discounted annual passes and incentives for those who volunteer at federal sites. Here are some other low-cost ways you can enjoy them!
Purchase an America The Beautiful Annual Pass:
For just $80 a year, you can get unlimited entry to over 2,000 natural, historic and cultural sites throughout the United States! If you plan on visiting at least three of these sites, the pass has already paid for itself. What a win!
Get A Senior Pass:
Are you 62 years of age or older? You can can purchase an annual pass for $20, or even better, a lifetime pass for $80.
Volunteer At The Parks:
For those who love to give back, people who volunteer at least 250 hours with federal agencies that participate in the Interagency Pass Program can request a no-cost pass. This pass is valid 12 months from the date of issue.
