For some time, active-duty military personnel and their dependents have been able to receive an America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Annual Pass for FREE (an $80 value). Now, Gold Star Families and US military veterans are eligible to receive the same free access to more than 2,000 federal recreation areas, including national parks, wildlife refuges, and forests.
The free pass is a way to thank America’s veterans and Gold Star families for their support of our country and to encourage them to explore recreational opportunities on their public lands and waters.
The entrance fee waiver does not cover expanded amenity or user fees for activities such as camping, transportation, special recreation permits, reservation fees or special tours.
In partnership with many U.S. government agencies, the program is part of the Joining Forces initiative’s effort to thank service members and their families for their sacrifices.
Military, veterans and Gold Star families can pick up the FREE pass at select federal recreation sites by showing any of several IDs. Here’s a list of what you can use as ID.
For more details on the program, click here.