1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. National & State Parks

US National Parks Passes

By Lauren Himiak, About.com

© National Parks Service

In 2004, the new Interagency Pass Program was created to not only make it easier to visit national parks and forests, but to also assist the elderly and disabled. Participating agencies include the National Park Service, U.S. Department of Agriculture - Forest Service, Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Land Management and Bureau of Reclamation.

The pass series is collectively known as the America the Beautiful - National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, and has something to offer everyone.

America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass – Annual Pass

  • Cost: $80
  • Available to the general public and lasts for one year, beginning from the date of sale
  • Provides access to, and use of, all national parks and Federal recreation sites that charge an entrance/standard amenity
  • Pass may be used for passengers in a non-commercial vehicle (at per vehicle fee areas), as well as pass holder plus 3 adults at per person fee areas. Note: Children under 16 are admitted free
  • Purchase: By calling 1-888-ASK USGS, ext. 1, or online

America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass – Senior Pass

  • Cost: $10
  • Lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents age 62+
  • Provides access to, and use of, all national parks and Federal recreation sites that charge an entrance/standard amenity fee
  • Pass may be used for passengers in a non-commercial vehicle (at vehicle entrances), or for pass holder plus 3 adults at per person fee areas
  • Provides a 50% discount on some amenity fees
  • Non-transferable and generally does not cover special recreation permit fees
  • Purchase: In person at the park

America the Beautiful - National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass - Volunteer Pass

  • Cost: Free
  • Available for volunteers who acquire 500 service hours on a cumulative basis and lasts for one year, beginning from the date of sale
  • Provides access to, and use of, all national parks and Federal recreation sites that charge an entrance/standard amenity fee
  • The pass may be used for passengers in a non-commercial vehicle (at per vehicle fee areas), as well as pass holder plus 3 adults at per person fee areas. Note: Children under 16 are admitted free
  • Purchase: Online

America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass – Access Pass

  • Cost: Free
  • Lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities
  • Provides access to, and use of, all national parks and Federal recreation sites that charge an entrance/standard amenity fee
  • Pass may be used for passengers in a non-commercial vehicle (at vehicle entrances), or for pass holder plus 3 adults at per person fee areas. Note: Children under 16 are admitted free
  • Provides a 50% discount on some amenity fees
  • Non-transferable and generally does not cover special recreation permit fees
  • Purchase: Only obtained in person at the park. Documentation is required

For Those Who Hold Passes From the Former Pass Program

Former: Golden Eagle Passport, National Parks Pass, and Golden Eagle Hologram

Replaced by: America the Beautiful - National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass - Annual Pass. Former passes will continue to be honored according to the provisions of the pass.

Former: Golden Age Passport

Replaced by: America the Beautiful - National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass - Senior Pass. May be exchanged free of charge for new plastic passes.

Former: Golden Access Passport

Replaced by: America the Beautiful - National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass - Access Pass. May be exchanged free of charge for new plastic passes.

Explore National & State Parks
About.com Special Features

Find travel inspiration and get the best tips and reviews for your next getaway. More >

The best times to visit East and Southern Africa. More >

  1. Home
  2. Travel
  3. National & State Parks
  4. US National Parks
  5. National Parks Passes - How to get National Park Passes>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.