Acadia Sets to Join Badlands, American Samoa, Biscayne, Death Valley, and Other US National Parks in New ‘America First’ Policy, Offering Free Entry Exclusively to Domestic Visitors, New Update is Here

Published on December 10, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Acadia is set to join Badlands, American Samoa, Biscayne, Death Valley, and other U.S. National Parks in embracing the new “America First” policy. This policy will offer free entry exclusively to domestic visitors, making it easier for U.S. residents to explore some of the country’s most iconic national parks.

Acadia National Park, along with others like Badlands, American Samoa, and Death Valley, will now prioritize American tourists with this exciting change. As part of the new initiative, these parks will waive entrance fees for domestic visitors, providing an incredible opportunity for locals to experience nature’s beauty without the added cost.

This move reflects a growing trend of supporting US residents and their access to the nation’s natural wonders. Read on for more updates on how these free entry days will impact visitors and what it means for future travel to National Parks across the country.

Here is a list of National Parks in the United States:

1. Acadia National Park (Maine)
2. American Samoa National Park (American Samoa)
3. Arches National Park (Utah)
4. Badlands National Park (South Dakota)
5. Big Bend National Park (Texas)
6. Biscayne National Park (Florida)
7. Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park (Colorado)
8. Joshua Tree National Park (California)
9. Bryce Canyon National Park (Utah)
10. Canyonlands National Park (Utah)
11. Capitol Reef National Park (Utah)
12. Carlsbad Caverns National Park (New Mexico)
13. Channel Islands National Park (California)
14. Congaree National Park (South Carolina)
15. Crater Lake National Park (Oregon)
16. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Ohio)
17. Death Valley National Park (California/Nevada)
18. Denali National Park & Preserve (Alaska)
19. Everglades National Park (Florida)
20. Gates of the Arctic National Park & Preserve (Alaska)
21. Gateway Arch National Park (Missouri)
22. Glacier National Park (Montana)
23. Grand Canyon National Park (Arizona)
24. Grand Teton National Park (Wyoming)
25. Great Basin National Park (Nevada)
26. Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve (Colorado)
27. Great Smoky Mountains National Park (North Carolina/Tennessee)
28. Guadalupe Mountains National Park (Texas)
29. Haleakalā National Park (Hawaii)
30. Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park (Hawaii)
31. Hot Springs National Park (Arkansas)
32. Indiana Dunes National Park (Indiana)
33. Isle Royale National Park (Michigan)
34. Joshua Tree National Park (California)
35. Kenai Fjords National Park (Alaska)
36. Kings Canyon National Park (California)
37. Kobuk Valley National Park (Alaska)
38. Lake Clark National Park & Preserve (Alaska)
39. Lassen Volcanic National Park (California)
40. Mammoth Cave National Park (Kentucky)
41. Mesa Verde National Park (Colorado)
42. Mount Rainier National Park (Washington)
43. National Park of American Samoa (American Samoa)
44. New River Gorge National Park and Preserve (West Virginia)
45. North Cascades National Park (Washington)
46. Olympic National Park (Washington)
47. Petrified Forest National Park (Arizona)
48. Redwood National and State Parks (California)
49. Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado)
50. Saguaro National Park (Arizona)
51. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (California)
52. Shenandoah National Park (Virginia)
53. Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota)
54. Virgin Islands National Park (U.S. Virgin Islands)
55. Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota)
56. Washington D.C. National Mall and Memorial Parks (Washington D.C.)
57. Wind Cave National Park (South Dakota)
58. Yellowstone National Park (Wyoming/Montana/Idaho)
59. Yosemite National Park (California)
60. Zion National Park (Utah)

In 2026, U.S. residents will have 10 free entrance days to enjoy National Parks that usually charge an entry fee. These days include the highly anticipated July 4th weekend, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the crown jewels of the U.S. National Park system at no cost. The National Park Service (NPS) has increased the number of free entrance days for 2026, with a total of 10 days. This includes all three days of Independence Day weekend, as well as other significant dates like Presidents Day, Memorial Day, and Veterans Day. For U.S. residents, the expanded free access to National Parks provides an exciting chance to visit top destinations without the usual fees. However, it’s important to note that new fees will be applied to international visitors starting in 2026. Read on to find out more about these special dates and the changes that come with them.

Starting 1 January 2026, international visitors to 11 of the United States’ most‑visited national parks will face a significant cost increase. Under a new “America‑first” pricing structure from the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), non‑residents without a pass must pay US $100 per person — on top of the existing entrance fee — to enter parks such as Grand Canyon National Park, Yosemite National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and others. (doi.gov)

For travellers planning multiple park visits, the nationwide annual pass — America the Beautiful Pass — will cost US $250 for non‑residents, compared with the existing US $80 rate for U.S. citizens and permanent residents. (doi.gov)

The DOI argues this surcharge helps generate much‑needed revenue to maintain visitor facilities and address deferred maintenance across the park system. U.S. residents will continue to enjoy the lower annual pass rate and benefit from “fee‑free days” on selected holidays.

However, the new fee regime is already drawing criticism from tourism‑industry stakeholders and conservation groups. Many argue that the increased cost could deter international tourists — particularly budget travellers — and damage tourism‑dependent economies near park gateway towns.

For foreign visitors planning a 2026 trip to U.S. national parks, the financial equation has changed. A single park entry could now cost significantly more. Visitors must decide between paying the one‑time surcharge per park visit or opting for the $250 annual pass for broader access. Travel budgets, itineraries and scheduling will all need recalibration.

This overhaul marks one of the most dramatic shifts in U.S. public‑land access pricing in decades — with far‑reaching consequences for global tourism, conservation funding, and how America’s natural treasures are shared with the world.

Expanded Free Entrance Days for 2026
The National Park Service (NPS) has announced 10 free entrance days for U.S. residents in 2026, marking an increase of four days from the previous year. These days provide an excellent opportunity for those who want to experience the beauty of National Parks without paying an entrance fee. Among the key dates for free entry are Presidents Day on February 16, Memorial Day on May 25, and Flag Day on June 14. Additionally, Independence Day weekend from July 3 to 5 will allow visitors to explore popular parks for free. These dates offer the perfect opportunity for families, tourists, and outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the great outdoors, from iconic parks like Yellowstone to lesser-known gems across the country.

The Special Dates to Remember
In 2026, there will be several significant dates where U.S. residents can visit National Parks for free. These include February 16 for Presidents Day, May 25 for Memorial Day, and June 14 for Flag Day, along with the extended Independence Day weekend from July 3 to 5. The National Park Service is also offering free entry on August 25 to celebrate the 110th birthday of the NPS, Constitution Day on September 17, and Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday on October 27. Veterans Day on November 11 will also be a free entry day. These dates will allow visitors to experience everything from hiking trails and historic monuments to wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.

Changes for International Visitors in 2026
Starting in 2026, international visitors will face new entrance fees at U.S. National Parks. Non-U.S. residents visiting the 11 most popular parks will need to pay an additional $100 fee unless they purchase an annual nonresident pass for $250. This fee applies even on the designated free entrance days, meaning international visitors will still be required to pay during these times. The new policy follows a record-breaking year for National Park visits, with over 331 million visitors recorded in the previous year. This policy aims to manage the growing demand and ensure that National Parks remain well-maintained for all visitors. The change reflects the increasing popularity of these destinations among global travelers.

A Record Number of Visitors in 2025
The U.S. National Parks have seen a massive increase in visitors, with a record 331.9 million visitors in 2025. This surge in popularity highlights the growing appeal of National Parks as a must-visit destination for both domestic and international travelers. As more people flock to these iconic sites, the National Park Service is adjusting its policies to manage the influx of visitors while still providing access to these natural wonders. The introduction of fees for international visitors is one way the NPS is managing the high demand and ensuring the sustainability of the park system. The increase in free entrance days for U.S. residents in 2026 aims to offer even more opportunities for locals to enjoy these parks without worrying about entry fees.

Conclusion: Take Advantage of the 2026 Free National Park Days
With the introduction of 10 free entrance days in 2026, National Parks across the U.S. will become more accessible to U.S. residents than ever before. These days include several key holidays, including Independence Day weekend, allowing families and individuals to explore nature without the burden of entrance fees. While the changes in fees for international visitors may affect some travelers, the expanded free entry days for U.S. residents are a welcome opportunity to experience the beauty of National Parks. Whether you’re planning a hike in Yosemite or a visit to the Grand Canyon, these special dates offer the perfect chance to explore America’s natural treasures.

In conclusion, the recent changes to U.S. National Park entry policies, which include free entry for domestic visitors and new fees for international travelers, mark a significant shift in the way these iconic sites will be accessed in 2026. With National Parks like Acadia, Badlands, American Samoa, Biscayne, and Death Valley now embracing the “America First” initiative, U.S. residents can take advantage of free access to these treasured lands on designated days. This policy aims to prioritize American tourists and encourage exploration of the country’s natural beauty, making it easier for locals to enjoy everything from hiking trails to stunning landscapes without the usual entry fees.

These changes are a response to the increasing popularity of National Parks, which saw over 331 million visitors last year. The introduction of additional entrance fees for international visitors reflects a growing demand and is expected to generate necessary revenue for maintaining these parks. The policy adjustments, which include free entry days like those on Presidents Day, Independence Day weekend, and other major holidays, offer U.S. residents an excellent opportunity to visit parks like Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, and Yosemite.

To learn more about these changes, refer to the National Park Service for full details on passes and free days, or read the official Department of the Interior announcement for further insights.