PORTLAND, Maine (WGAN) — In recognition of Veterans Day, the National Park Service is reminding veterans, active-duty military members and Gold Star Families about free passes providing access to national parks and other federal recreational lands across the country.
Under the program, U.S. military veterans and eligible Gold Star Family members can receive a free lifetime pass, while active-duty military members and their dependents qualify for a free annual pass.
The passes cover entrance fees and standard day-use fees at more than 2,000 federal recreation sites, including Maine’s Acadia National Park.
Who Qualifies?
- Veterans: Free lifetime pass, including eligible National Guard and Reserve veterans.
- Gold Star Families: Free lifetime pass for eligible family members of military personnel who died while serving.
- Active-Duty Military: Free annual pass for current service members and eligible dependents.
How to Get a Pass
Veterans can obtain a free lifetime pass in person at participating federal recreation sites by presenting qualifying identification, including a Veteran Health Identification Card, Veteran ID Card or a state-issued driver’s license with a veteran designation.
Eligible Gold Star Family members can obtain a pass by presenting a Gold Star Family voucher.
Digital passes are also available through Recreation.gov. Physical passes ordered online may involve shipping or processing fees.
What Does the Pass Cover?
The passes provide free entrance to national parks, national wildlife refuges, national forests and other participating federal lands.
The benefit also extends to passengers traveling with the passholder in a private, noncommercial vehicle, or up to three additional adults at locations charging per-person admission.
Camping, tours, reservations and certain other activities may require additional fees.
The free lifetime pass is available year-round, not just on Veterans Day.
For eligibility requirements and information on obtaining a pass, visit the National Park Service website:
https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/veterans-and-gold-star-families-free-access.htm