Cashless Fee Collection FAQ

Why does the park have cashless operations?
Reducing cash collected in fee operations allows a park unit to be a better steward of our visitors’ dollars. It allows Capulin Volcano National Monument to:

• Reduce the amount of time park staff spend managing cash (i.e. reduce our administrative burden).
• Improve accountability, reduces the chance of errors, and allows the park to maximize funding available for visitor services and critical projects.
• Reduce transaction times.
• Cashless fee collection helps us stay safe, secure, and effective and allows our rangers to spend more time with visitors.

When did the park start cashless operations?
In early February 2018, we joined other national park sites that accept credit/debit cards only.

What entrance stations are cashless?
The Visitor Center is cashless for entrance fees.

What if I only have cash?
The park is working with our bookstore who sells park passes for cash. Visitors that only have cash can purchase a $20 single-vehicle entrance pass, good for 7 days, at the bookstore.

Can I use contactless payments (e.g., Apple Pay or my pre-paid Wallet phone app)?
Yes, you can use Apple Pay and other contactless payments systems at the Capulin Volcano Visitor Center.

Can I use a personal check or cashier’s check?
No. Only credit, debit, and other forms of electronic payment are accepted at the Visitor Center.

Can I purchase a pass before I get to the park?
No. Visitors can buy entrance fees at the Capulin Volcano Visitor Center. Visitors can also buy the America the Beautiful Passes -- Annual, Senior Annual, Senior Lifetime, Military Passes (Annual or Lifetime), and Access Pass -- at the Capulin Volcano Visitor Center. Visitors can visit Capulin Fees and Passes to learn more.

Can I still use cash inside Capulin Volcano National Monument?
Yes, the bookstore will accept cash or cards.

What advantages does this have to the park visitor?
Uniform cashless policies should decrease wait times and reduce errors around making change. Going cashless:

• Improves accountability, reduces the chance of errors, and allows the park to maximize funding available for visitor services and critical projects.
• Reduce transaction times.