The National Park Service (NPS) has announced the implementation of increased entry fees for international tourists at selected U.S. national parks, alongside changes reserving fee-free days exclusively for American residents.
Fee Structure and Affected Parks
The U.S. Department of the Interior confirmed that 11 national parks, including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite, will be impacted by the new fee structure. Effective January 1, the annual park pass for foreign tourists will increase to $250, while the cost for U.S. residents will remain $80.
Additionally, fee-free days will now be designated solely for U.S. residents. This includes Veterans Day, which was previously one of eight free entry days accessible to all visitors in 2025.
Context and Rationale
This policy change is introduced as national parks address staff reductions, budget cuts, and financial impacts resulting from a recent government shutdown. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum indicated on the social platform X that these modifications aim to ensure affordable access for U.S. taxpayers and increase contributions from international visitors for park maintenance and improvements. A White House post on X regarding the fee increases concluded with the phrase "AMERICANS FIRST."
The announcement follows a July executive order by then-President Donald Trump, which directed national parks to increase entry fees for foreign tourists.
Visitor Statistics and Funding Utilization
In 2018, the U.S. Travel Association estimated over 14 million international visitors to national parks and monuments. Yellowstone National Park reported that international visitors constituted nearly 15% of its total in 2024, a decrease from 30% in 2018.
Kati Schmidt, a spokesperson for the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), stated that the organization intends to address questions regarding the implementation of the new policy with the Department of Interior.
Funds generated from these new fees are designated to support national park operations, including facility upgrades and maintenance.