America's national parks are stunning, but the costs of a trip can quickly add up. If you're hoping to explore these natural wonders on a budget, there are several ways to save money, or even visit for free.
While a few parks, such as Great Smoky Mountains and Redwood National Park, don't charge an entrance fee, most do. The most popular way to get unlimited access is to purchase the America the Beautiful – the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass. This $80 annual pass covers entrance and standard amenity fees at over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including all national parks. It's an excellent option for frequent travelers, and even though the pass is for one person (who must show a photo ID), it covers everyone in a private vehicle.
However, if you're looking for ways to visit the national parks without paying a dime, there are a few options. From free entrance days to passes for military members and fourth-graders, here's a detailed breakdown of all the ways you can visit national parks for free this year.
Want a free trip to a national park? Here's when you can go!
Free entrance days in 2025
A few specific days each year offer free admission to all National Park Service (NPS) sites that normally charge a fee. These are great opportunities to visit a park you've been wanting to see.
The remaining free admission days in 2025 are:
- September 27: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
It's important to remember that these days waive only the entrance fee. Other costs, such as timed entry or reservation fees, may still apply. Always check the park's website beforehand to ensure you have all the necessary information for a smooth visit.
Source: Andrew D/Unsplash
Passes for military service members and veterans
If you have a military background, you don't have to wait for a free entrance day. All U.S. military members, veterans, and their dependents are eligible for free entry into national parks. This benefit also extends to Gold Star families, which are the immediate family members of service members who died in a conflict.
To take advantage of this benefit, service members and veterans can simply show their valid military ID or other proof of service at the park entrance. This is a small way to honor the service and sacrifice of these individuals and their families.
The access pass for people with permanent disabilities
For U.S. citizens and residents with permanent disabilities, the America the Beautiful – the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Access Pass is a game-changer. This free, lifetime pass provides complimentary entrance to all national parks and federal recreation sites.
To get the pass, you'll need to show a valid photo ID and provide documentation of your permanent disability. This can include a statement from a local physician, a document from a federal agency like Social Security Disability, or a state-issued document. This pass ensures that these incredible natural spaces are accessible to everyone.
The "Every Kid Outdoors" program
The Every Kid Outdoors program is designed to get fourth-graders and their families to experience the country's natural wonders. As part of this program, all fourth-grade students in the United States, along with their family members, can enter national parks for free.
The pass is valid for the entire school year, from September through August. To get it, simply visit the Every Kid Outdoors website, where you can print the pass. Parks don't accept digital versions, so make sure to have a physical copy with you. If you're a fourth-grade teacher, you can print passes for your entire class, making it easy to plan a field trip or encourage your students to visit a park with their families.
When you're planning a trip to a national park, remember that logistics are key. If you're flying to a park, you'll need a place to leave your car. This is where options like airport parking alternatives can save you money and stress. Finding a secure lot with airport parking safety measures can give you peace of mind while you're hiking through the wilderness. You can use platforms like ParkingNearAirports.io to easily find and book a spot, and if your plans change, you can easily cancel airport parking reservation. This flexibility is crucial when you're dealing with unpredictable travel schedules.
Source: Done By Alex/Unsplash
The Volunteer Pass
Another fantastic way to get a free pass is to give back. If you volunteer at least 250 hours at a federal recreation site, you are eligible for the Volunteer Pass. This annual pass provides free entry to a wide range of sites, not just those managed by the NPS.
You can accrue volunteer hours at any site managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), the USDA Forest Service, the Bureau of Reclamation, the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), or the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). This pass is a great incentive for anyone who enjoys spending time outdoors and wants to contribute to the preservation of these lands. The work can be anything from trail maintenance to campground hosting, and the sense of fulfillment you get from helping is just as valuable as the free pass itself.
