From Jo Landolfo’s guide · Section 12, with current official pass details
Public lands in the United States are managed through two primary systems: federal and state. National Parks and most federal lands are overseen at the federal level, while State Parks are managed individually by each state. Because these systems operate independently, passes and benefits generally do not transfer between them. Entry rules, overnight options, and enforcement can vary widely depending on which system you are using.
Choosing which passes to use depends on how and where you travel. Some travelers rely primarily on state park passes for quieter overnight stays, while others benefit from federal access for daytime exploration and seasonal travel. Understanding how these systems connect — and where they do not — allows you to plan with confidence and choose what best supports your journey.
Federal Park Passes — Age & Eligibility Reference
Official pass information checked October 10, 2026. Prices below are the pass prices; ordering or processing charges may apply.
| Pass | Eligibility | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Resident Annual | U.S. citizens and residents | $80 |
| Non-Resident Annual | Non-U.S. residents | $250 |
| Senior Annual / Lifetime | U.S. citizens or permanent residents, age 62+ | $20 / $80 |
| Military Annual | Current U.S. military members and dependents | Free |
| Military Lifetime | Eligible U.S. veterans and Gold Star family members | Free |
| Access Lifetime | U.S. citizens or permanent residents with a permanent disability | Free |
Passes cover federal entrance and standard day-use fees. They do not cover state parks or guarantee camping, reservations or overnight access. Senior passes may reduce some camping and other amenity fees. Bring required identification and eligibility documents.
Official NPS eligibility, prices and purchase options ↗
Check your destination’s reservation requirements separately. For state passes, use the 50-state directory.