1. Annual Pass
I’ve said it many times – our national park pass is one of the best values in travel! An $80 annual pass opens up so many places in the U.S. to explore! There are also various discounts ($80 lifetime senior rate, military discounts, free days, etc…). You can purchase a digital pass, receive a physical pass mailed from USGS Store, or buy at one of the park locations.
2. NPS Website/App
You’ll want to check the NPS website for the most up to date information for each park and site. There’s also an NPS app to download for tours, interactive maps, and all the details needed for your visit (over 400 sites included).
3. Reservations Requirements
As our parks have gotten extremely popular over the past years; timed entries and reservations have become more common during the summer in a few of our parks. Also be sure to check seasonal closures and road access if you’ll be traveling in the off season, as some park roads close during the winter.
4. Entry to Other Sites
Keep in mind a national park pass also allows entry into numerous other sites; including national monuments, national seashores, and wildlife refuges. You’ll have access to around 2000 federal recreation sites!
5. Lodging Tips
I highly suggest you book your lodging as far ahead as possible. On site campgrounds and lodging reservations open 6 months prior (on a rolling basis) and popular ones can book up same day! Numerous of our parks have small towns or hotel options near park entrances, and can be a nice alternative.
6. Vehicle Restrictions
There are certain vehicle rules for each national park. Some have certain roads closed to cars or campers over a certain length, width, or height. Also, parking and pull-offs can be very limited for oversized RVs. If you’re traveling with a large vehicle or camper – I recommend you try and visit in the off seasons when possible. Or, as an alternative – stay outside the park and drive into the park with your tow car if you’re with your RV. Parking gets very, very congested in some of the parks during the busy summer season.
7. Pet Rules
Be sure to check the rules for taking your pet into the park you’ll be visiting, as they vary. Due to an abundance of wildlife in some of the parks – there are strict rules for not taking your pets on hiking trails or open spaces. I’ve seen some allow them only in designated parking areas. I’m a big dog lover, but in my opinion – national parks aren’t the best or easiest places to visit with your pups.
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris
