Planning to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the United States? The America the Beautiful – National Parks & Federal Recreational Lands Pass is your essential companion for accessing numerous federal recreation sites. This pass simplifies entry to locations managed by a host of prestigious agencies, making it easier and more affordable to experience America’s natural wonders.
This versatile pass covers entrance fees and standard amenity fees (day-use fees) at sites managed by:
- National Park Service (NPS)
- US Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS)
- US Forest Service (USFS)
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
- Bureau of Reclamation
- US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
Depending on the fee structure at each location, the pass covers either:
- One private vehicle entrance fee
- Up to four individual per-person entrance fees
Choose the Pass That Fits Your Needs
The America the Beautiful Pass comes in several options to accommodate different visitors, from annual passes for frequent explorers to lifetime passes for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Here’s a breakdown of the available passes:
| Type | Available to | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Pass | Everyone | $80.00 |
| Senior Annual Pass | US citizens and permanent residents 62+ years old | $20.00 |
| Senior Lifetime Pass | US citizens and permanent residents 62+ years old | $80.00 |
| Military Annual Pass | Current US military and their dependents | Free |
| Military Lifetime Pass | Gold Star Family members and veterans | Free |
| Access Pass | US citizens and permanent residents with permanent disabilities | Free |
| 4th Grade Pass | US 4th graders | Free |
| Volunteer Pass | Federal recreation site volunteers with 250 service hours | Free |
Important Pass Information:
- America the Beautiful Passes are non-refundable, non-transferable, and cannot be replaced if lost or stolen.
- Pass holders must present a valid photo ID each time the pass is used.
How to Purchase Your America the Beautiful Pass
Getting your pass is straightforward, with options to purchase in person or online.
Purchase In Person (Recommended for Immediate Use)
For those needing immediate access, purchasing a pass in person is the quickest method. Passes are available at over 1,000 federal recreation sites across the country.
Find a Purchase Location Near You
Order Online and Receive by Mail
If you prefer to plan ahead, you can order your pass online through the USGS Online Store. Keep in mind that online orders are for physical passes only—digital versions are not available. Processing and delivery can take up to three weeks, so it’s recommended to order well in advance of your trip. Note that order receipts cannot be used as a substitute for the physical pass.
Visiting Soon? Buy Your Pass Upon Arrival.
To avoid potential delays with mail delivery, consider purchasing your America the Beautiful Pass directly at one of the participating locations when you arrive at your first destination. This ensures you have your pass in hand and are ready to explore immediately.
Senior Passes: Options for Visitors 62 and Over
For US citizens and permanent residents aged 62 and older, there are special Senior Passes available, offering exceptional value:
- Senior Annual Pass: Priced at just $20.00, this pass is valid for one year.
- Senior Lifetime Pass: For a one-time fee of $80.00, enjoy lifetime access.
Applicants for Senior Passes need to provide documentation verifying age and residency or citizenship.
Benefits of the Senior Pass:
- Discounts on Amenity Fees: Senior Passes may provide a 50% discount on certain amenity fees, such as camping, swimming, boat launching, and specialized interpretive services.
- Exclusions: Generally, the Senior Pass does not cover or reduce fees for special recreation permits or fees charged by concessioners.
- Non-transferable Gifts: Passes cannot be purchased as gifts since the eligible recipient must be present to prove eligibility.
Senior Annual Pass Front Design
Purchase Senior Annual Pass – $20.00
Senior Lifetime Pass Front Design
Purchase Senior Lifetime Pass – $80.00
Legacy Passes: Golden Age and Golden Access Passports
While Golden Age Passports and Golden Access Passports are no longer sold, they are still honored under their original terms. The National Park Service encourages holders of these legacy passes to exchange them for a Senior Lifetime Pass at no cost. This exchange can be done in person at any site that issues passes. Simply bring your old pass and a valid photo ID for verification.
Explore More with Regional Annual Passes
While the America the Beautiful Pass offers nationwide access, some locations provide regional or site-specific annual passes that can be beneficial if you frequently visit particular areas or parks. These passes can sometimes offer additional value or access to state parks in conjunction with federal lands.
Here are a few examples of annual passes focused on specific regions or park groups:
- HawaiÊ»i Tri-Park Pass: Valid for 12 months, covering Haleakalā National Park, HawaiÊ»i Volcanoes National Park, and PuÊ»uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park. Admits the pass holder and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle (up to 14 capacity).
- Southeast Utah Parks Annual Pass: Grants access to Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, Natural Bridges National Monument, and Hovenweep National Monument.
- Flagstaff Area National Monuments Annual Pass: Covers Sunset Crater Volcano, Walnut Canyon, and Wupatki National Monuments for one year. Admits the pass holder, motorcycle passenger, or occupants of a single non-commercial vehicle.
- Northern California/Southern Oregon 4-Park Pass: Annual passes from Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, Lassen Volcanic National Park, Crater Lake National Park, and Lava Beds National Monument are mutually accepted at all four parks.
- Oregon Coast Passport: Covers entry, parking, and day-use fees at all Oregon state and federal fee sites along the Oregon Coast for 12 months.
- Assateague Island National Seashore Annual Pass / Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge Annual Pass: These site-specific annual passes are honored at both locations.
- Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks Annual Pass: Valid for one year at Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks and the Hume Lake Ranger District of Sequoia National Forest/Giant Sequoia National Monument. Covers all passengers in a private vehicle and is non-transferable.
- Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot Annual Pass: A $35 annual pass valid for Montezuma Castle and Tuzigoot National Monuments. Good for the cardholder plus 3 adult guests. Available online and in person. Non-refundable and non-transferable.
- Great Falls Annual Pass: Provides access to the Great Falls area of the C&O Canal National Historical Park (Maryland) and Great Falls Park (Virginia) for one year. Admits the pass holder and passengers in a private non-commercial vehicle, or pass holder plus three adults on foot or bicycle.
Conclusion: Your Passport to Adventure
The America the Beautiful Pass is more than just a pass—it’s your ticket to experiencing the unparalleled beauty and recreational opportunities within America’s national parks and federal lands. Whether you’re a frequent visitor or planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip, choosing the right pass can enhance your adventures and provide significant savings. Explore the options, choose the pass that best suits your travel style, and get ready to discover the wonders that await!
