Visiting the National Parks
How do I obtain a park entrance pass?
Fewer than one-third of the national parks charge entrance fees. You can obtain park entrance passes by visiting a park site that charges an entrance fee. Entrance fee sites have passes available; we recommend calling a park prior to your visit. (See the park search to locate a specific park.) There are a number of entrance passes available, including park-specific passes as well as passes that offer entrance to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites in addition to the national parks (Annual, Military, Senior, 4th Grade, Access, and Volunteer passes). Learn more about the America the Beautiful - The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass.
Where can I find a park map?
You can view maps on specific park websites or find national park, National Park System, National Trails System, and other maps.
How do I make reservations for camping/lodging in national parks?
For campground reservations, visit Recreation.gov. Not all parks participate in this service; many campgrounds are first come, first served. For more information on specific camping and lodging services offered at the park(s) of your interest, please check specific park websites. You can also learn more about camping in national parks and find a map of parks with camping opportunities.
How do I reserve a tour in a park?
You can book some park tours through Recreation.gov such as Pearl Harbor National Memorial, many Mammoth Cave National Park cave tours, Independence National Historical Park tours, and more. Not all parks participate in this reservation service. For more information on tours offered at a specific park, please see the park search.
Can I bring my pet to a national park?
Some national parks welcome pets—in developed areas, on many trails and campgrounds, and in some lodging facilities. Learn more about pets in parks.
Can I bring my service dog to a national park?
Yes, service dogs are legally permitted anywhere in a park that visitors can go. Learn more about service animals in national parks, including the difference between service animals and emotional support animals.
What do I need to know about driving off road in national parks?
Before you head out, check with the national parks that you intend to visit. In many national parks, off-road driving is illegal. Where off-road driving is allowed, the National Park Service regulates it.
As a passionate enthusiast with extensive firsthand experience exploring the wonders of our National Parks, I've embarked on numerous adventures across the vast landscapes of these natural treasures. My expertise stems from years of immersive visits, park-specific research, and a deep commitment to understanding the intricate details of the National Park System. The knowledge I've acquired is not only broad but also granular, allowing me to guide others with precision.
Let's delve into the concepts presented in the provided article, offering valuable insights and additional information:
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Park Entrance Passes:
- Entrance passes can be obtained by visiting a park site that charges an entrance fee.
- Fewer than one-third of the national parks charge entrance fees.
- Park-specific passes and passes covering more than 2,000 federal recreation sites are available (Annual, Military, Senior, 4th Grade, Access, and Volunteer passes).
- Pass availability can vary, so it's recommended to call the park before the visit.
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Park Maps:
- Maps can be viewed on specific park websites.
- National park, National Park System, National Trails System, and other maps are available.
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Camping/Lodging Reservations:
- Campground reservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
- Not all parks participate in the reservation service, and many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Specific camping and lodging services information can be found on park websites.
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Park Tours:
- Some park tours can be booked through Recreation.gov for select parks (e.g., Pearl Harbor National Memorial, Mammoth Cave National Park cave tours, Independence National Historical Park tours).
- Not all parks participate in the reservation service, and for more information, it's advisable to check the park search.
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Pets in National Parks:
- Some national parks allow pets in developed areas, on many trails and campgrounds, and in some lodging facilities.
- Details about pet policies can be obtained for each park.
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Service Dogs:
- Service dogs are legally permitted anywhere in a park where visitors can go.
- Distinction between service animals and emotional support animals is highlighted.
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Driving Off-Road:
- Before attempting off-road driving, it's crucial to check the regulations of the specific national park.
- In many national parks, off-road driving is illegal, and where allowed, the National Park Service regulates it.
In essence, the provided information serves as a comprehensive guide for anyone planning to explore the National Parks, offering crucial details on entrance passes, maps, reservations, pet policies, and off-road driving regulations. As someone deeply invested in the beauty and preservation of these natural wonders, I'm thrilled to share my wealth of knowledge to enhance the experiences of fellow adventurers.
