Friday Freebie: U.S. National Parks Passes

U.S. citizens and permanent residents with permanent disabilities are entitled to a lifetime Access Pass to U.S. National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands. The pass grants free admission for the pass holder and passengers at per-vehicle fee areas or the pass holder and 3 other adults at per-person fee areas. When extra amenities charges apply, the pass holder is granted a 50% discount. The Access Pass is available upon presentation of documentation of disability from any U.S. National Park; acceptable documentation includes: statement by a licensed physician; document issued by a Federal agency such as the Veteran’s Administration, Social Security Disability Income or Supplemental Security Income; or document issued by a State agency such as a vocational rehabilitation agency.

A similar pass, valid for one year, is available to anyone volunteering 500 hours on behalf of the National Park Service. You can search for volunteer opportunities near you on this page.

Not free but nearly so is the Senior Pass, another lifetime pass for U.S. citizens and permanent residents over the age of 62. It is available from all National Parks for the bargain price of $10. This would make a wonderful gift for any grandparent, elderly neighbor or retired friend! Also a great reason to invite your favorite senior citizen along on your next trip.

Wondering where your closest national park or federal recreational area is? Use the interactive map at the National Park Service’s website to pull up information on the parks closest to you!