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:
Free Entrance Days for America’s National Parks
Lifetime Senior National Parks Pass
Free annual pass to National Parks for 4th graders and their families
