The Trump administration frames the move as prioritizing taxpayer-funded access for Americans while requiring international visitors to contribute more toward park maintenance and upgrades.
Previously free holidays like Presidents' Day and Constitution Day will now only apply to U.S. residents, eliminating universal free access. Revenue will fund conservation, facility upgrades and digital improvements.
The National Park System saw 331.9 million visits in 2024, the highest ever, with overcrowding forcing some parks (like Shenandoah's Old Rag Mountain) to implement reservation systems.
Critics warn the fees could deter international tourism, while supporters argue they ensure U.S. taxpayers aren't subsidizing foreign visitors’ access to national treasures.
Starting Jan. 1, 2026, foreign tourists visiting U.S. national parks will pay significantly higher fees under a new policy announced by the Department of the Interior on Tuesday, Nov. 25. Nonresidents will be charged $250 for an annual parks pass—more than triple the $80 cost for U.S. citizens and permanent residents—while also facing a $100 surcharge at 11 of the most popular parks, including the Grand Canyon and Rocky Mountain National Park.
The move, framed as an "America First" initiative by the Trump administration, aims to prioritize taxpayer-funded access for Americans while requiring international visitors to contribute more toward park maintenance and upgrades.
Interior Secretary Doug Burgum emphasized that the policy aligns with President Donald Trump's longstanding commitment to putting American citizens first.
"President Trump's leadership always puts American families first," Burgum said in a statement. "These policies ensure that U.S. taxpayers, who already support the National Park System, continue to enjoy affordable access, while international visitors contribute their fair share to maintaining and improving our parks for future generations."
The fee overhaul will also eliminate universal free-admission days on holidays like Presidents' Day and Constitution Day, reserving those benefits exclusively for U.S. residents. Revenue from the increased fees will fund facility upgrades, conservation efforts and digital improvements, including mobile-friendly park passes and expanded coverage for motorcycles....<<<Read More>>>...