U.S. Triples National Park Fees for Non-Residents; Introduces New Charges for Americans Under Trump Administration
New Entrance Fee Structure for National Parks: An America-First Approach
The Interior Department has unveiled a new fee structure aimed at international visitors to national parks, incorporating a distinctive “America-first” approach. This policy change also includes commemorative annual passes featuring prominent American figures and special fee-free days for U.S. residents.
Increased Fees for International Visitors
Beginning next year, entrance fees for international visitors will see a significant increase, more than tripling in cost. Non-resident guests will have the option to purchase an annual pass for $250 or pay $100 per person to enter eleven of the most popular national parks, in addition to the regular entrance fee. This move is part of a broader government strategy to ensure that international visitors contribute fairly to the preservation of these cherished natural resources.
Affordable Access for American Residents
In a recent announcement, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum emphasized the department’s commitment to making public lands more accessible for Americans. Starting in 2026, U.S. residents will be able to purchase an annual interagency pass for just $80, maintaining the current pricing of the America the Beautiful pass.
Commemorative Pass Designs and Fee-Free Days
The Interior Department also revealed new designs for annual passes to be issued in 2026. These passes will feature portraits of George Washington and Donald Trump alongside each other, with military passes featuring a photograph of Trump saluting troops. Additionally, the department announced five new “fee-free days” exclusively for U.S. residents in 2026, raising the total to ten. The new days include celebrations on July 3, 4, and 5, 2026, marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, as well as Constitution Day on September 17, Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday on October 27, and Flag Day on June 14, which coincidentally is also Trump’s birthday.
Conservation Focus and Public Reaction
Burgum stressed that the increased fees for international visitors are designed primarily to support conservation efforts. Referencing Theodore Roosevelt, he remarked that conservation is a paramount issue in America. However, this initiative comes amid criticism, as the Interior Department, under the leadership of Burgum and Trump, has faced significant cutbacks, losing nearly a quarter of national park staff. Previous proposals have included billions in budget cuts to public lands, logging permissions in national forests, and reduced funding for conservation organizations, alongside controversial plans for offshore oil and gas drilling in California.
