National Parks Senior Pass
Quick answer: If you’re 62 or older and a US citizen or permanent resident, you can buy the America the Beautiful Senior Pass for $80 for life or $20 for one year. It covers entrance at national parks and 2,000+ federal recreation sites and can halve some camping fees. Prices didn’t change for 2026.
Lifetime or annual senior pass?
- Lifetime pass: $80, good for the rest of your life.
- Annual pass: $20, good for 12 months.
Keep your annual passes. Four of them can be traded in for a lifetime pass at no extra cost.
How to buy the senior pass
- In person at a park entrance or other federal site that sells passes. No processing fee.
- Online from the USGS Store. You upload proof of age and residency and pay a $10 processing fee. The pass ships within about 5 business days, plus mailing time.
What the senior pass covers
At parks that charge per car, it covers you and everyone riding in your personal vehicle. Where fees are per person, it covers you plus three adults. Kids under 16 get in free anyway.
It can also give you 50% off some amenity fees, like camping, swimming, boat launches and some guided programs. It generally doesn’t cover things run by private concession companies, like lodges or boat tours.
National parks senior pass FAQ
How much is the national parks senior pass in 2026?
$80 for a lifetime pass or $20 for an annual pass. Buying online adds a $10 processing fee.
What age do you need to be for the senior pass?
62 or older, and you must be a US citizen or permanent resident.
Does the senior pass cover my spouse?
Yes, if they ride in the same car at a per-vehicle site. At per-person sites, it covers you plus three adults.
Can I upgrade an annual senior pass to lifetime?
Yes. Four annual senior passes can be exchanged for a lifetime pass at no extra charge.
Last checked: September 2026. Amenity discounts differ by site, so ask about camping rates when you book.
