National Park Concessions
Food, lodging, tours, whitewater rafting, boating, and many other recreational activities and amenities in more than 100 national parks are managed by private businesses under contract to the National Park Service (NPS). The services, provided by more than 600 "concessioners," gross more than $1 billion every year and provide jobs for more than 25,000 people during peak season. Learn more about NPS Commercial Services and see what concession contracts are open for bidding.
Contracting and Procurement
National parks have buildings to construct, roads to pave, wastewater treatment plants to operate, and leaky roofs to repair. NPS offices purchase furniture, vehicles, office equipment and a host of other products. The NPS issues all bids and requests for proposals through the federal government's electronic business portals. Current contracting opportunities are posted on Sam.gov. Vendors that have questions regarding abbreviations referenced within NPS SOW's may refer to the NPS Reference Standards when completing bids for our work.
Commercial Use Authorization
The NPS Commercial Services Program is responsible for the oversight of commercial visitor services in the national parks authorized by concession contracts, commercial use authorizations (CUAs), and leases. A wide range of activities and services are provided through these instruments.
Leasing
The NPS provides for leasing of historic as well as non-historic properties in park areas. A lease may not authorize an activity that could be authorized by a concessions contract or commercial use authorization. All leases must provide for fair market value rent as determined by an appraisal. All net income is reinvested to fund historic preservation, capital improvements of the historic properties, park infrastructure, and any deferred maintenance needs.
Special Event Permits (Special Park Uses)
National parks are great places to celebrate historic events and family milestones. The types of activities that take place in national parks are diverse, such as sporting events, pageants, celebrations, regattas, public spectator attractions, entertainment, ceremonies, historical reenactments, fairs, festivals, weddings, family reunions, and picnics.
Depending on the size and complexity of the planned event, the park may require you obtain a special park use permit. If issued, the permit will include terms and conditions that protect park resources while allowing you to enjoy the park without interfering with other park visitors.
Permit applications are available through each park's administrative office (and may be available on the permits and reservations pages of park websites). Visit our National Parks in the Midwest page to connect with park websites.
Last updated: March 14, 2025