The US Department of the Interior has announced a series of significant fee increases targeting international tourists visiting popular national parks. This decision is an important step toward reversing the troubling decline in international tourism. It answers both a recent shift in tariff policy and a sharp increase in restrictions on immigration. The new fee changes will go into effect on January 1, 2026, with non-US residents experiencing a significant increase in their total cost.
Starting in 2026, non-resident visitors will be required to $250 to get the annual America the Beautiful Pass. The Department of the Interior jointly administers this pass. US citizens will have to pay $80 for the same pass. Foreign visitors who do not want the annual pass will be required to pay $100 per person. This new fee on top of the regular entrance fee would be charged at 11 of the busiest national parks.
The increase for FY 20 follows the longest federal government shutdown in US history. Across this period, the National Park Service infrastructure crumbled due to lack of manpower and funding. The Department of the Interior has jurisdiction over more than 70 percent of all federal public lands. This modest price increase will help make sure we are raising the billions of dollars needed to maintain them.
Secretary Burgum told Council members that similar policies have already been implemented by other countries. He continued, “These policies make certain that US taxpayers, who already subsidize the National Park System, keep enjoying affordable access. At the same time, these international visitors are paying their fair share to help preserve and improve our parks for future generations.”
The new approach to park fees aligns with a broader trend, as evidenced by a White House social media post that reads, “AMERICANS OFFERED AFFORDABLE PRICES WHILE FOREIGNERS PAY MUCH MORE.” While we don’t want to discourage domestic visitors, the proposed fee structure takes into account the greater financial burden that should be born by our international guests.
Now, the Department of the Interior has announced plans to roll out an improved booking system. Taken together with the increases, they will begin to make real progress on access for motorcyclists across our national parks. These initiatives are described as “the most significant modernization of national park access in decades,” aiming to enhance visitor experiences while ensuring sustainability.
International tourism is a dynamic sector. At the same time, demand for access to national parks is increasing, forcing the US government to make a smart strategic pivot. Infrastructure officials are increasing and/or changing inspection fees and updating infrastructure. Their goal is to protect large swathes of America’s natural wonders while making it accessible and affordable for American citizens.
