The program, which provides fourth graders and their families with free access to public lands and recreation sites across the United States, was established in 2015 and is currently scheduled to sunset in 2031.
If the Every Kid Outdoors Act passes, it would make the program permanent and expand it to students in the fifth grade; provide a free annual pass for fourth and fifth graders, and their families, to access federal lands and waters; and ensure agencies coordinate and conduct outreach so families know about and can use the program’s benefits.
Speaking of her move to reintroduce of the act, Ansari, an Arizona Democrat, said, “Every child should have the opportunity to go out in nature—regardless of income or zip code. My bill is a small but mighty step toward equity, health, opportunity, and increased environmental awareness for the next generation.”
The updated program was designed to include fourth and fifth graders, as research has shown that not only are children learning more about the world around them and more likely to be interested in nature and U.S. history at this age, but participants are also more likely to visit parks throughout the rest of their lives if they experience them at age 10.
The act is an important step toward increasing childhood access to nature and the benefits that come with it.
Robert Scott, the deputy director of federal policy with Sierra Club’s Outdoors for All campaign applauded the move, saying, “The longer it takes for a young person to connect with nature, the less likely they are to ever develop that connection, but early connections with the outdoors are proven to yield better health, education, and wellness outcomes. Extending this program would allow even more families and communities to experience these benefits.”
From 2023-2024 alone, 167,970 passes were issued through the program, a 17 percent increase compared to those issued from 2022-2023. Moreover, research on Every Kid Outdoors participants indicates that without free access, the majority would never have visited a national park, underscoring how essential the program is when it comes to introducing children to these spaces.
Rena Payan, the chief program officer at Justice Outside, also expressed support for the program and the reintroduction of the Every Kid Outdoors Act.
“The Every Kid Outdoors Act is a vital step in ensuring that all children have access to the curiosity, joy, and sense of self that a connection to the outdoors brings. We are proud supporters of this act, and know that its introduction will have ripple effects for generations to come," said Payan.
Families that would like to participate in the program can print out a pass from EveryKidOutdoors.gov and redeem the pass at participating locations like national parks.
A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.
Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:
- Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
- Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
- Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
- North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
- Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
- Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
- Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.
INN Member
The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.
Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.
Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.
You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.
