Editor's note: This updates with a response to non-resident rate increases from the Coalition to Protect America's National Parks.
Starting January 1, 2026, the Department of the Interior will deliver new digital America the Beautiful passes, updated annual pass artwork, expanded motorcycle access, and a new resident-focused fee structure. According to Interior, these updates mark the most significant modernization of national park access in decades.
Under the new system, the America the Beautiful passes – including Annual, Military, Senior, 4th Grade and Access – will be available in a fully digital format through Recreation.gov. Visitors will be able to purchase and use their passes instantly, store them on mobile devices, and link them to physical cards. Digital validation tools and updated training for field staff will ensure faster entry and a smoother visitor experience across the Park System.
The Department also unveiled new graphics for all annual passes, which will appear on both digital and physical passes.
The Department is also implementing "America-first" entry fee policies. Under the policy, nonresidents will pay a higher rate. The Annual Pass will cost $80 for U.S. residents and $250 for nonresidents. Nonresidents without an annual pass will pay a $100 per person fee to enter 11 of the most visited national parks, in addition to the standard entrance fee.
The nonresident fee increase is part of President Trump’s Executive Order 14314, “Making America Beautiful Again by Improving Our National Parks,” which directed the Secretary of the Interior to "appropriately" increase Park Service entrance fees and recreation pass fees for nonresidents, in order to "increase revenue and improve the recreational experience at national parks."
“In a year where national park staff have already been cut by nearly 25%, we worry this will be yet another burden for already overworked employees. And to what end?" said Coalition to Protect America's National Parks Executive Director Emily Thompson in response to the announcement. "International visitation has been an important economic driver for our parks and for gateway communities around the U.S., and this could end up negatively impacting them...National parks should be available and accessible to all, or America's best idea will become America's greatest shakedown."
The Park Service is also expanding affordability and access for motorcycle riders, as all America the Beautiful passes will now cover two motorcycles per pass.
According to Interior, revenue generated from new fee policies will be invested directly back into America’s national parks, supporting upgrades to visitor facilities, essential maintenance, and improved services nationwide.
Story Categories:
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.
