The Every Kid Outdoors (formerly Every Kid in a Park) initiative gives a free National Parks Pass to fourth graders, giving the student and their family members FREE access to national parks and historic sites from September 1 of their fourth grade year through August 31st of the following year.
This year, the benefit has been extended to fifth graders as well, since many weren’t able to use their passes this past summer due to pandemic closures. Before heading out, you need to be aware of a few things:
1. You must fill out and print the form for the free pass in advance. National Parks offices DO NOT have copies of the application, and they do not accept electronic versions (example: showing the voucher on your phone).
2. Show the voucher to a ranger when you enter the park. If no ranger is available, place it on the dashboard of your car so it is visible. See the rules here.
3. Find your National Park and verify that they are open. COVID-19 has affected the operations of many parks around the country.
Social distancing is easy in the great outdoors. So print your voucher, plan your trip, and enjoy this special 2020 exception that’s helping our fourth AND fifth graders explore our beautiful country. Vouchers are valid until August 31, 2021!
National Parks By State – Where Your 4th Grader Can Use Their FREE National Parks Pass!
