In the U.S., we're very lucky to house some of the world's largest natural wonders.
There are a total of 58 national parks scattered across the country, and each one offers a unique experience.
The only downside is that the fees continue to get more expensive every year. For the 2018 season, many of the parks increased their entry fees by $5.
There are special days during which visitors can visit the parks for free (see below), but wouldn't it be nice if you didn't have to limit your adventures to just those days?
Well, for some lucky families, this wish is about to come true.
The "Every Kid in a Park" initiative has made it possible for families with students in fourth grade to get into national parks for free for an entire year.
Narrowing it down to fourth graders isn't a random decision, it's actually based on scientific research which showed that children start to get curious and learn about the world around them between the ages of nine and 11.
The program has been offering families the pass for a couple of years now, and this 2018-19 school season is no different. The pass will be valid until August 31, 2019, and includes entry for not only the fourth grader, but also all children in the family aged under 16, as well as up to three adults.
If you're going to be visiting a park with a vehicle, the pass can be used to admit all the passengers, granted the child in fourth grade is present.
To get your adventure started, click here to claim your free pass.
For families who don't have a child in fourth grade, you can purchase the annual America the Beautiful National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass for $80. If you're over 65, you can buy the pass for $20, or spend $80 and get a lifetime pass.
Here are some helpful tips so you can save money when visiting national parks that charge fees.
You can also access parks for free on the following days:
- January 15: Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday
- April 21: First day of National Park Week
- September 22: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
