Though a hefty number of National Parks are free for all, many still charge a fee. And with the coffers a bit low, NPS is raising entry prices across the board. Now comes word that what used to be one the best deals around is about to be not such a good deal.
The National Parks Service plans to increase the price of a Lifetime Pass for Seniors (62+) from $10 to $80, effective Aug. 28, 2017. The extra money will be used to enhance park services.
A new annual pass for older adults will be available for $20 per year, but you can apply that to the cost of the lifetime pass down the road, if you so choose. The new fees will go into effect Aug. 28, 2017.
Our advice: If you qualify, buy yours now. If purchased online, you’ll pay $25 ($10 plus a $10 processing fee and a $5 handling fee). You can also purchase by mail for $20 if your application is postmarked by Aug. 27, 2017. If you purchase at any federal recreation site (you may be surprised to find one close to you as many are within city limits), the fee is just $10. Learn about the various NPS Passes here.
