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Reservations and Passes

6 America the beautiful passes, the back one says 4th grade, the one in front says senior lifetime

Making Reservations

  • Book through rec.gov or the recreation.gov app
  • Some parks require timed-entry passes for traffic management
  • Book well in advance for popular sites and peak seasons
  • Digital standard passes available for many parks before arrival
  • Reservations may be required for: Guided tours and specialized programs, boat launches and water activities, camping and overnight stays, plus much more

Special-Use Reservations (SUPs)

SUPs may be required for activities that provide a benefit to an individual, group, or organization, rather than the public at large and for activities that require some degree of management by the National Park Service in order to protect park resources and the public interest. These may include:

  • Commercial photography and filming
  • Wedding and other event
  • Memorials
  • And more
Check with each site before engaging in Special-Use Activities.

Entrance Pass Options

Standard Pass

  • Single-park access for 1-7 days
  • Best for one-time visitors
  • Price varies by park

Annual Park Pass

  • One park access for 1 year
  • Not available at all parks
  • Best for frequent visitors to one park
  • Some passes cover multiple parks in a region and may include nearby state parks

America the Beautiful Pass

General Information

  • Access to all federal recreation sites for 1 year
  • Covers entrance and standard day-use fees
  • Valid at sites managed by:
    • National Park Service
    • US Fish & Wildlife Service
    • US Forest Service
    • Bureau of Land Management
    • Bureau of Reclamation
    • US Army Corps of Engineers

Pass Types and Eligibility

  • Standard Annual Pass: Available to general public
  • Senior Pass (US citizens/residents 62+):
    • Annual: $20
    • Lifetime: $80
    • Includes 50% discount on some amenity fees
  • Requires proof of age and citizenship/residency
  • Military and Veterans: Special rates available
  • Disability Access Pass: Free lifetime pass

Usage Guidelines

  • Covers one vehicle or up to 4 people
  • Requires photo ID for verification
  • Non-transferable and non-refundable
  • Cannot be replaced if lost or stolen
  • Not valid for special recreation permits
  • May not cover concessioner fees

Additional Information

Free Entrance Days

  • Free entrance days change year to year and are offered multiple times throughout the year.
  • Often include:
    • First day of National Park Week (April 19)
    • National Public Lands Day (September 27)
    • Veterans Day (November 11)
  • Other fees for campsites, timed-entry, tours, etc. may still apply

Fee Structure

  • At least 80% of entrance fees remain at the collecting park
  • Fees support: Park maintenance, visitor services, conservation efforts, facility improvements

Important Considerations

  • Check individual park websites for specific requirements
  • Some activities require additional permits beyond entrance fees
  • Reservation requirements may change during peak seasons
  • Standard passes do not guarantee entry during capacity restrictions
  • Some popular parks have seasonal rate changes
  • Legacy passes (Golden Age and Access) are still honored according to original terms

Last updated: April 1, 2025