The US has hundreds of national parks, forests and state parks, and visiting them is one of the best parts of life here. Since January 1, 2026, prices depend on whether you are a US resident.
The America the Beautiful pass
This annual pass covers entrance fees at national parks and many other federal recreation sites for a year.
To buy or use the resident pass, you show proof: a US passport, a US state driver's license or state ID, or a green card.
At 11 popular parks, each non-US resident aged 16 and older pays an extra $100 per person, on top of the normal entrance fee, unless they have the nonresident annual pass. The parks are: Acadia, Bryce Canyon, Everglades, Glacier, Grand Canyon, Grand Teton, Rocky Mountain, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, Yellowstone, Yosemite and Zion.
Fee-free days at national parks are now for US residents only.
If you live in the US on a visa, a US state ID or driver's license is accepted proof of residency. Check the park's page before you go if you are unsure.
Check the park's page at nps.gov for opening hours, closures and weather.
Some parks need a timed entry reservation in busy seasons. Book on recreation.gov.
Campsites and lodges in famous parks fill up months ahead.
Many parks have no phone signal. Download maps before you go.
States run their own parks with separate fees or annual passes. Many city and county parks are free. This differs by state.
Tell someone your plan and return time.
Carry more water than you think you need, especially in desert parks.
Keep a safe distance from wildlife. Never feed animals.
Follow food storage rules in bear country.
Stay on marked trails and check the weather.
Leave no trace: take your trash with you.
You need a state license to fish or hunt. Buy it from the state wildlife agency. Rules and prices differ by state.
Driving to a famous park in summer without the required entry reservation.
Forgetting your US ID and being charged the nonresident price.
Hiking in heat in the middle of the day with little water.