There are 421 National Parks across the United States that span across more than 84 million acres. The average cost to enter each National Park ranges anywhere from $15 to $35 for a one-time entrance fee. These costs can add up very quickly. The cheapest way to visit all of the National Parks is to buy an America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.
What is America the Beautiful Pass?
The America the Beautiful Pass is a pass is an annual ticket into all the National Parks and 2,000 federal recreational areas. For $80 the pass includes the entrance fee and is valid for one year upon the date the pass is purchased. If the park charges entrance per vehicle, the pass includes the fee for up to 15 people per vehicle. If the park charged entrance per person, the pass includes the fee for up to 4 people. You can check out a list of the U.S. parks included!
How to Use the Pass:
Once you purchase the pass, you will receive a plastic card. The card will have a hole punched in the month it was purchased. It is valid through that month of the following year. To use the pass, all you need to do is sign the back of the card and show the back of the pass at the entrance of each park. Most parks require you to show you ID with the pass.
Can I Share the Pass with other people?
Yes you can share the pass with one other person! There is a place of the back of the card for two signatures. A photo ID will be required to confirm the signature on the pass.
How do I Purchase a Pass?
I purchased my pass from Red Rock National Park at the entrance gate. If you want to purchase a pass in-person, call ahead to the National Park you plan on visiting to see if they sell the pass at the entrance gate. You can also purchase the pass anytime at the US Park Pass Website! Remember, it is only valid for one year upon the date the pass is purchased.
Warning: If you lose the card you will have to buy a new one. My car was recently broken into and my America the Beautiful pass was stolen. I sent an email explaining my situation, but was told I could not receive a new pass. (Click here to read about my car break-in!)
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