America’s national parks service wants to get more kids off the couch and into the great outdoors. That’s why they’re offering a deal that’s hard to resist: each year, every US fourth grader is invited to sign up for a free national parks pass.
The program, which began in 2019, has seen thousands of families participate.
“Introducing fourth grade students to America’s public lands provides them with limitless opportunities to have fun, be active, improve fitness, and learn critical skills,” said former Secretary of the Interior David Bernhardt when the program was introduced.
“Visits on class trips or family vacations to the rich variety of astonishing landscapes and historic treasures located on public lands will result in unforgettable experiences and, hopefully, forge lifelong connections to the outdoors.”
Sign up here: Every 4th grader — or homeschool equivalent — can sign up for a free national parks pass on this website.
The details: The national parks pass is good for the entire school year, expiring each August at the beginning of the new school year. The pass is also good for any other child in the family under 16 and up to 3 adults. More details here.
How it works: Once you fill out the form, you’ll be given a national parks pass to print off — just show it to the park ranger to be granted free entry! They don’t accept digital copies.
Why 4th graders: According to the program’s website, research shows that kids ages 9 to 11 are at the prime learning age where they’re open to new ideas and able to connect with the natural world around them. The program is repeated each year, so eventually all students will have an opportunity for a free national parks pass.
That’s it! Apply for pass now and enjoy outdoor adventures throughout the year. Maybe a family workation out West is calling your name!