Wichita on the Cheap

Live the Good Life for Less & Never Miss a Deal

Veterans, military, dependents, and Gold Star Families get FREE National Parks pass

Sharing is caring!

Gold Star Families, U.S. military veterans, and active-duty military personnel and their dependents can receive FREE America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Passes.

Current active-duty military and their dependents can get an Annual Pass for FREE (an $80 value). And there’s been an exciting update since we originally wrote this. Now, Gold Star Families and U.S. Military Veterans get a free Lifetime Pass.

This is a great deal if you plan to go a National Park or other public land this year. The pass can be used at more than 2,000 parks, wildlife refuges, and participating federal recreation sites.

The term “public lands” is really broad, so lots of places could potentially be included. At some Corps of Engineer campgrounds, for example, passholders may get free or discounted entrance for themselves and up to three other adults, or a carload if the site charges admission per vehicle rather than per person. It’s important to ask at each property, since the discounts vary.

There are some exclusions to be aware of; for example, the pass does not cover “expanded amenity” fees like those that may be charged for camping, boat launching, parking, special tours, permits, or ferries. The pass is also not accepted at some National Parks or federally owned lands that are operated by private companies.

Qualified personnel can order passes (for a fee) or pick up their pass in person for FREE at select national park or wild refuge entrances by showing their military ID. In Wichita, you can pick up your annual National Parks Pass at the Great Plains Nature Center.

You can also order your pass online at the USGS Store, but you’ll pay a $10 processing fee.

In partnership with many U.S. government agencies, the program is part of the Joining Forces initiative’s effort to thank service members and their families for their sacrifices. Find out if you qualify and get more details about the Annual America the Beautiful Military Pass here.

Related:

Military Discounts in Wichita

Free Entrance Days for America’s National Parks

Lifetime Senior National Parks Pass

State Park Passport

Free annual pass to National Parks for 4th graders and their families

Veterans Day freebies and events around Wichita

Latest Articles from Wichita on the Cheap:

Wildflower Walks at Great Plains Nature Center: Free

Wildflower Walks at Great Plains Nature Center: Free

Looking for a fun and free way to enjoy the outdoors in Wichita? Every last Thursday of the month at 6 PM, the community is

Air Capital Bacon, Bourbon and Brews

Air Capital Bacon, Bourbon and Brews

Bacon lovers unite! The Bacon, Bourbon & Brews festival is taking place on July 12, 2025 at Park City Arena in Park City, KS. Stroll

College Hill Pool Dog Swim: Dog Days of Summer

College Hill Pool Dog Swim: Dog Days of Summer

Are you a dog lover like I am? College Hill Park is hosting Dog Days of Summer, where the doggies can swim in the pool.

Exploration Place Newest Traveling Exhibit: Barbie

Exploration Place Newest Traveling Exhibit: Barbie

Exploration Place is Wichita’s premier science museum, offering an ever-changing lineup of exhibits that keep visitors coming back for more. This interactive museum brings hands-on

2025 National Ice Cream Day Deals in Wichita, KS – Free & Discounted Treats

2025 National Ice Cream Day Deals in Wichita, KS – Free & Discounted Treats

What’s better than ice cream? Free ice cream, of course! So don't miss these National Ice Cream Day/Month freebies.  2025 Update (July 2025): This post

Free Ice Cream Social & Birthday Celebration at the Wichita Historical Museum

Free Ice Cream Social & Birthday Celebration at the Wichita Historical Museum

Can you think of anything better to do when the weather is so warm than getting together with friends and neighbors for an old-fashioned ice

Scroll to the top