Rocky Mountain Joins Saguaro, Sequoia and Kings Canyon, Shenandoah, Theodore Roosevelt, Virgin Islands and Voyageurs National Park as New Fees Reshape U.S. National Park Access for International Visitors Under New America-First Policy

Published on December 11, 2025

The U.S. National Park Service (NPS) is ushering in a monumental shift in how international visitors access some of the country’s most iconic natural treasures. Starting January 1, 2026, a new America-First policy will drastically change the way non-U.S. residents experience national parks, with higher fees at some of the most popular sites, including Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado), Saguaro National Park (Arizona), Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (California), Shenandoah National Park (Virginia), Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota), Virgin Islands National Park (U.S. Virgin Islands) and Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota).

This article dives deep into the key details of the new America-First National Park Fee Policy, shedding light on the affected parks, the rationale behind the fee changes and how international travelers will be impacted.

The Big Shift: Higher Fees for International Visitors

The America-First policy is aimed at prioritizing U.S. citizens and residents in park access and contributions. Under this policy, non-U.S. visitors will face higher fees, with a $100 surcharge on top of the standard entry fees for certain national parks. This move is part of a broader initiative to ensure that international travelers contribute their fair share toward park maintenance, infrastructure and environmental preservation.

Among the national parks affected by this new fee structure are Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado), Saguaro National Park (Arizona), Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (California), Shenandoah National Park (Virginia), Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota), Virgin Islands National Park (U.S. Virgin Islands) and Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota). This bold step aligns with the ongoing push to make U.S. public lands more accessible to residents while ensuring that international visitors contribute more financially.

These changes represent a significant policy shift in U.S. tourism and park access, with the intention of balancing the needs of residents and international visitors alike. As a result, many international travelers will now face a steeper cost of admission when visiting these once more accessible natural wonders.

Rocky Mountain National Park: A Major Player in the Fee Shift

Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado), one of the most popular parks in the U.S., will see a substantial increase in fees for international visitors. With foreign tourists previously able to access the park with minimal fees, the introduction of a $100 surcharge changes the landscape. This fee will be applied to international visitors who do not hold an annual pass, marking a significant cost increase for those looking to experience its majestic views and rugged landscapes.

The new surcharge for non-residents will affect thousands of international travelers annually, making Rocky Mountain National Park one of the parks most impacted by the America-First policy. This move aims to help cover the growing costs of maintaining the park’s expansive trail systems, visitor centers and wildlife conservation efforts, while keeping fees lower for U.S. citizens.

Saguaro National Park: Arizona’s Iconic Desert Landscape

In Saguaro National Park (Arizona), visitors will also face changes under the new policy. While Saguaro National Park has not been officially confirmed as one of the parks with the $100 surcharge in the DOI’s first wave of announcements, the park does charge standard entry fees and it is expected that international visitors without the annual pass will incur higher costs in line with the new fee structure.

Saguaro is home to the iconic saguaro cactus, a symbol of the American Southwest. The park sees high international foot traffic and as one of the crown jewels of Arizona’s natural beauty, it’s expected to feel the impact of the new fees. Visitors from around the world who have long been drawn to this desert paradise will find themselves paying more to experience its vast desert landscapes, rich biodiversity and stunning sunsets.

Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks: California’s Majestic Giants

For those venturing into the Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (California), the changes are more dramatic. Known for its towering sequoia trees, including the famous General Sherman Tree, these parks will impose the $100 surcharge on international visitors starting January 1, 2026. The stunning landscapes of Sequoia and Kings Canyon have long drawn travelers from across the globe, but with the new fee structure, non-U.S. visitors will face higher costs to witness these natural wonders.

These two parks in California are vital to preserving some of the world’s largest and oldest trees. The extra fee revenue is intended to support the preservation of these giant trees and their surrounding ecosystems, as well as improve visitor services in the park.

Shenandoah National Park: Virginia’s Hidden Gem

The beauty of Shenandoah National Park (Virginia) lies in its tranquil mountains, scenic overlooks and hiking trails that stretch through the Blue Ridge Mountains. Unfortunately, this park has not been officially listed under the new surcharge policies, so while international visitors will still pay standard entrance fees, the America-First policy will not directly affect Shenandoah for now.

However, like other parks, Shenandoah still benefits from the general revenue produced by entrance fees. Any new policies regarding fee structures could potentially affect its future pricing model. For now, international visitors will pay the regular fees unless changes are announced later.

Theodore Roosevelt National Park: North Dakota’s Wild Frontier

Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota) is another park included in the new fee structure, although it does not currently charge the $100 surcharge. The America-First policy aims to ensure that visitors to the park, especially those coming from overseas, contribute to the park’s maintenance. Despite the lack of an official surcharge, international visitors to Theodore Roosevelt National Park are likely to see higher costs for special services, events and programs moving forward.

As a park rich in history, with ties to the famous president, the Theodore Roosevelt National Park is known for its rugged Badlands and wildlife, making it a must-see for many. The America-First policy will likely add an extra financial burden on those coming from abroad, despite the park’s relatively lower visitation compared to others on the list.

Virgin Islands National Park: Caribbean Beauty at a Premium

In Virgin Islands National Park (U.S. Virgin Islands), the America-First policy could significantly impact international visitors, especially as the park is a highly sought-after destination for travelers from Europe, Canada and beyond. While the park is currently not listed as part of the surcharge program, it is clear that higher costs for international visitors are likely to follow the new fee structure that the America-First policy introduces.

Virgin Islands National Park, with its pristine beaches, coral reefs and tropical wildlife, is an international treasure. International visitors without an annual pass could face steeper fees to explore its stunning coastline and scenic trails, reinforcing the policy’s focus on making parks more accessible to U.S. residents.

Voyageurs National Park: Minnesota’s Water Wonderland

Finally, Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota), known for its breathtaking waterways and wildlife, is currently not listed among the parks affected by the $100 surcharge. However, as part of the larger America-First pricing structure, international visitors may still experience an increase in fees, especially for certain boating permits or other special programs.

Voyageurs National Park is unique due to its water-based activities and with the influx of international tourists eager to experience its lakes and trails, the America-First policy will help ensure that these natural resources are preserved for future generations while maintaining a fair fee structure for U.S. residents.

The Future of National Park Accessibility

While Rocky Mountain National Park (Colorado), Saguaro National Park (Arizona), Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks (California), Shenandoah National Park (Virginia), Theodore Roosevelt National Park (North Dakota), Virgin Islands National Park (U.S. Virgin Islands) and Voyageurs National Park (Minnesota) all face significant changes under the America-First policy, it is clear that the National Park Service intends to protect U.S. citizens’ access while ensuring international visitors contribute more to the upkeep of these treasured spaces.

As 2026 approaches, it remains to be seen whether further national parks will be added to the surcharge list, or if other changes will be made to the America-First policy. What is clear, however, is that these new fees are reshaping the way international visitors engage with U.S. national parks, making it essential for travelers to plan their visits accordingly.

For those who wish to continue enjoying the natural beauty of the United States, it will be important to factor in these new costs and consider purchasing an annual pass for non-residents to mitigate the additional charges.

In conclusion, the new America-First policy has set the stage for a more selective approach to national park access, ensuring that parks like Rocky Mountain National Park, Saguaro National Park, Sequoia and Kings Canyon and others are maintained and preserved for future generations. While international travelers may face higher costs, these parks will continue to be an iconic part of America’s natural heritage, accessible to those who are willing to contribute to their preservation.