The America the Beautiful Pass grants access to over 2,000 US federal recreation sites. Covering entrance and standard day-use fees at National Parks and Forests, it offers significant savings for nature lovers. It covers entrance for one private vehicle or up to four individuals at per-person fee areas.
The pass provides access to a variety of locations managed by:
- National Park Service
- U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service
- U.S. Forest Service
- Bureau of Land Management
- Bureau of Reclamation
- U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Several pass options cater to different needs and eligibility requirements:
| Pass Type | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Pass | Everyone | $80.00 |
| Senior Annual Pass | U.S. citizens and permanent residents 62+ | $20.00 |
| Senior Lifetime Pass | U.S. citizens and permanent residents 62+ | $80.00 |
| Military Annual Pass | Current U.S. military and dependents | Free |
| Military Lifetime Pass | Gold Star Family members and veterans | Free |
| Access Pass | U.S. citizens and permanent residents with permanent disabilities | Free |
| 4th Grade Pass | U.S. 4th graders | Free |
| Volunteer Pass | Federal recreation site volunteers with 250+ service hours | Free |
The America the Beautiful Pass is non-refundable and non-transferable. Lost or stolen passes cannot be replaced. Pass holders must present valid photo identification with their pass upon entry.
Acquiring a pass is straightforward: purchase in person at federal recreation sites, order online via the USGS Online Store (physical passes are mailed), or obtain one from an authorized purchase location. Online orders may take up to three weeks for processing and delivery.
Discounted annual and lifetime passes are available for US citizens and permanent residents aged 62 and older. The Senior Pass may also offer discounts on some amenity fees, but generally excludes special recreation permits or concessioner fees. Proof of age and residency/citizenship is required. These passes cannot be purchased as gifts.
While the Golden Age and Golden Access Passports are no longer issued, they remain valid. Holders are encouraged to exchange them for a current Senior Lifetime Pass for free at participating locations.
Regional or park-specific annual passes offer access to multiple parks within a specific area, such as Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, Arches National Park, and the Oregon Coast. These provide localized options for frequent visitors.