U.S. National Parks to Charge Foreign Tourists Extra Starting in 2026

Published on December 1, 2025

Starting January 1, 2026, international visitors to some of the most iconic national parks in the U.S. will face a new $100 surcharge. This move, announced by the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), aims to adjust the fee structure and bring international visitors closer in line with the costs borne by U.S. taxpayers.

The surcharge will apply to 11 of the most visited parks, including Yellowstone, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon. These parks, which draw millions of global tourists every year, will see their entrance fees rise significantly for non-U.S. residents. While U.S. residents will continue paying the existing $80 for an annual park pass, international tourists will need to pay an additional $100 per person for park entry or opt for a new annual pass priced at $250.

The Impact on U.S. Tourism

The goal behind this pricing adjustment is to ensure that U.S. citizens, who fund much of the maintenance and conservation efforts for national parks, are prioritized. At the same time, the DOI says that this move helps “balance the costs” by requiring foreign tourists to contribute to the upkeep of these national treasures.

The fee structure revision also signals a broader shift in U.S. tourism policy. The U.S. has always been a top destination for international travelers, with its national parks being one of the country’s most beloved draws. For many tourists, visiting places like Yellowstone’s geothermal features or the majestic cliffs of Yosemite has been a dream come true. However, as visitation numbers increase, so do the costs associated with managing these sites, including infrastructure repairs, environmental conservation, and visitor services.

According to the DOI, the additional surcharge and revised pass structure will help address the parks’ backlog in maintenance and continue efforts to enhance the visitor experience. Funds collected from the new fees will be allocated to projects like trail repairs, parking expansions, and restroom facilities, ensuring that visitors continue to have a safe and enjoyable experience while preserving the parks for future generations.

A Shift in Visitor Experience

For international tourists, this price hike comes at a time when the U.S. is already experiencing an uptick in interest from overseas visitors, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. Many travelers have been eager to return to the U.S. to explore its natural wonders, but this new policy might prompt some to reconsider their itineraries.

The new $100 surcharge per park visit could make a significant difference in the overall cost of a U.S. vacation. For example, a family of four could be looking at an extra $400 just for entry into these parks. Tourists seeking to visit multiple national parks in one trip could find that the cost begins to add up quickly.

For those who plan to visit several parks, the new $250 annual pass for non-residents may be the best option. It offers access to the affected parks and can be a cost-effective choice for those on longer stays. However, for travelers looking to visit only one park, the new fees may seem disproportionate, especially for a brief visit.

Addressing Overtourism and Environmental Concerns

In addition to helping with financial stability, this pricing shift aims to address overtourism. National parks have been seeing record numbers of visitors in recent years, which has led to congestion, environmental strain, and overcrowding. By adjusting entry fees for international tourists, the U.S. hopes to manage the flow of visitors more effectively and protect the parks’ ecosystems.

The revision also marks a shift in how these parks are experienced by travelers. The digital transition for passes and the end of fee-free days for non-residents will make the system more streamlined but also adds a layer of complexity. These changes mean that international tourists will need to plan their visits more carefully, as they won’t be able to rely on the free entry days that were previously available.

Tourism in Transition

As the global travel market continues to recover, the U.S. is positioning itself as a premier destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The changes to national park fees are part of a broader effort to make tourism sustainable, while keeping these sites accessible to both U.S. residents and international visitors.

However, the new surcharge could lead to a shift in how international tourists perceive the value of U.S. national parks. While some may still choose to pay the extra costs, others might opt to explore alternative destinations or adjust their travel plans. The true impact of this change will become clearer as the policy is rolled out in 2026.

In the end, this policy change highlights the growing need for balancing accessibility with conservation. While national parks will remain a top attraction for tourists, it’s clear that the costs associated with their upkeep will continue to evolve. Tourists will need to adapt, but the hope is that these changes will ensure these majestic natural wonders are preserved for generations to come.

The future of U.S. national parks will be shaped by these adjustments, ensuring a sustainable balance between preserving nature and offering visitors the chance to experience these remarkable landscapes. Whether you’re planning a road trip across America or simply want to witness the beauty of the Grand Canyon, it’s important to keep these changes in mind when budgeting for your next adventure.