Veteran National Parks & Federal Recreation Benefits
Veterans and Gold Star families receive a free lifetime America the Beautiful Military Pass — access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites across the United States.
All VeteransThe America the Beautiful Military Pass
The America the Beautiful — National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass is available free of charge to U.S. military veterans and Gold Star families. This lifetime pass grants access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country.
Key Benefit
This is a free lifetime pass — not an annual pass. Once obtained, it never expires and covers entrance fees at all participating federal recreation sites.
Who Is Eligible?
U.S. Military Veterans
Any U.S. military veteran who served honorably is eligible for the free lifetime pass. Proof of veteran status is required.
Gold Star Families
Immediate family members of service members who died in the line of duty are eligible for the free lifetime pass.
Active-Duty Service Members
Active-duty military members and their dependents receive free access to federal recreation sites with a valid military ID — no pass required.
Dependents
The pass covers the pass holder and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle, or the pass holder plus three adults at sites that charge per person.
Where Can You Use It?
The pass is accepted at federal recreation sites managed by the following agencies:
- National Park Service (NPS) — all national parks, monuments, and recreation areas
- U.S. Forest Service (USFS) — national forests and grasslands
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM) — public lands and recreation areas
- U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service — national wildlife refuges
- Bureau of Reclamation — reservoirs and recreation areas
- Army Corps of Engineers — lakes, rivers, and campgrounds
How to Obtain Your Pass
Explore more benefits and privileges available to veterans.