Free National Parks Pass for 4th Graders 2025

You’ve probably heard there’s a free National Parks pass for fourth graders. But is it real? Is it worth the effort? You don’t need another item on your to-do list, and don’t want ot have to jump through hoops to get something you aren’t even sure you will use. But let me tell you, we’re now on round two of having a 4th grader and getting the pass, and we couldn’t be happier. It takes two minutes (literally) and you get a year of access to not just many of the “big 63” parks, but national forests, seashores, and so much more. So if you have a fourth grader and want a pass too (you do), I created a short and sweet FAQ all about the Every Kid Outdoors free National Parks Pass for 4th graders below. Find out what it covers, where to use it, and how to get it in 2 minutes. You’re welcome.

What is Every Kid Outdoors?

Every Kid Outdoors is a program sponsored by a variety of departments within the United States such as the US Bureau of Land Management (BLM), National Parks Service, US Forest Service, and more. Its purpose is to encourage children and families to get out and experience the many parks within the country, and the hope is that every kid in the United States will be able to access the pass at one point.

How do we get a free national parks pass for 4th graders?

Getting a free national parks pass for 4th graders couldn’t be easier. Follow the simple steps and get one for your 4th grader today!

1. Go to www.everykidoutdoors.gov
2. Click on “Get Your Pass”
3. Have your current 4th grader do the activity (it took 2 minutes.)
4. Print out your pass!

What if we homeschool?

Just because your child is not part of a brick-and-mortar school, they can still get their free national parks pass for 4th graders if that is the grade level at which they are primarily being taught for the school year. They complete the process the same as a student in a public or private school.

How long does the pass last?

The current pass for fourth-grade students is valid from September 1, 2025, to August 31, 2026. Students entering the fourth grade next fall will be able to access the pass starting September 1, 2026.

Which parks is this valid for?

The following parks require an entrance fee, and most should be covered by the free national parks pass for 4th graders. Be aware the passes rarely or never cover fees such as guided cave tours, boats, and equipment. Click on the links below to learn more about visiting a specific park with your kids.

Beyond these sites, there are countless US Forest Service Areas, National Monuments, National Seashores, National Historical Sites, and more. The free national parks pass for 4th graders will get you entrance to many of these as well.

How does the pass work?

You simply need to bring your printed pass with you and show it at the fee station or put it on your dashboard if no fee station is present. It will cover the vehicle entrance fee for one vehicle or the individual entrance fee for all kids under 16 and up to three adults. Check out the rules section of the program for additional information.

While the pass will give you free entry to many parks, it does not guarantee entry. Several parks require a variety of reservations for vehicle entry, tours, and so on. Read this post to learn how to navigate the reservation system.

Pro tips for using your free national parks pass:

• Don’t forget your pass! You have to have the paper pass for it to be valid.
• Exchange your printed paper pass for a more durable plastic pass. There are locations within each state where you can do this. Find the list here.
• If you are an educator or work with local schools, check out this link to get free national park passes for all of your 4th-grade students. There are also several lesson plans you can download and use in your classroom!

Start planning a national parks vacation today!

Are you ready to get out and explore with your family? Let me help! Check out my free blog articles all about the national parks, get a park-specific guide, or let me work with you to create a custom itinerary tailored to your family’s specific needs.