"Environmentalists and former agency employees warn of increased workloads for park employees at a time when park staffing is already low."
"U.S. citizenship will determine how expensive it is to access America’s national parks beginning next year, the Interior Department announced yesterday. Prices for non-U.S. residents to purchase an “America the Beautiful” pass, which grants the holder access to all of the country’s national parks for a year, will more than triple, rising from $80 to $250.
The department is also instituting a new $100 fee for non-U.S. residents who visit one of the county’s 11 most popular parks, most of which are located in the western half of the country. The new changes go into effect on Jan. 1, 2026.
“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,” said Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, in a press release accompanying the announcement.
Charging higher fees for non-U.S. visitors is not a new idea, but the announcement was met with skepticism from environmental groups, who fear the price change could threaten revenue for the National Park Service, which is already reeling from significant staffing cuts imposed by President Donald Trump’s second administration."
Jake Bolster reports for Inside Climate News November 26, 2025.
SEE ALSO:
"Higher Fees For Foreigners Visiting US National Parks Stokes Tourism Concerns" (AP)
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