There Are 5 Ways to Enter U.S. National Parks for Free in 2026-What to Know

"In 2025, there were a few changes to the existing pass systems that are important to flag. In November, a new policy went into effect that charges international visitors an additional $100 per person to enter the 11 most popular national parks. Guests from abroad will also not be able to take advantage of any of the fee-free days outlined below."

"U.S. residents can purchase the America the Beautiful Pass for $80. The pass covers entrance and amenity fees at properties managed by the National Park Service, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The pass covers a full year of admission and is available for $20 for Americans aged 62 and up"

"This year there will be 10 free entry days at national parks. The first one is coming fast, on Presidents Day, Feb. 16. Feb. 16 - Presidents Day May 25 - Memorial Day June 14 - Flag Day and President Donald Trump's birthday July 3-5 - Independence Day weekend Aug. 25 - The National Park Service's 110th anniversary Sep. 17 - Constitution Day Oct. 27 - Theodore Roosevelt's birthday"

U.S. national park visitation reached a record 331.9 million people in 2024, with preliminary 2025 data suggesting an even higher total. A November 2025 policy adds a $100 per-person charge for international visitors at the 11 most popular national parks and excludes guests from fee-free entry days. U.S. residents can buy the America the Beautiful Pass for $80, which covers entrance and amenity fees at NPS, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, and U.S. Army Corps sites for one year; senior passes cost $20 and the international pass costs $250. There are 10 free national park entry days in 2026, including Presidents Day (Feb. 16), Memorial Day (May 25), Flag Day (June 14), Independence Day weekend (July 3–5), NPS anniversary (Aug. 25), Constitution Day (Sep. 17) and Theodore Roosevelt's birthday (Oct. 27).

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