2026 National Park Entrance Fees: What Travelers Need to Know

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Golden sunrise reflected on a calm lake surrounded by pine trees, showcasing peaceful scenery in Yellowstone National Park.
Beginning January 1, 2026, the National Park Service (NPS) is implementing significant changes to national park entrance fees and annual passes. These updates affect both U.S. residents and international visitors and are designed to support conservation, infrastructure, and visitor services at America’s most popular national parks.
If you’re planning a guided experience with Buffalo Roam Tours, understanding the new pricing structure will help you plan efficiently and avoid unexpected costs.
Scenic view of Grand Teton National Park as travelers plan for 2026 national park entrance fees and annual pass changes.

What Is Changing With the National Park Entrance Fees?

Introduction of Nonresident Entrance Fees

For the first time, the National Park Service is introducing a non-U.S. resident entrance fee at select high-visitation parks. Visitors aged 16 and older who are not U.S. residents will be required to pay:
  • The standard park entrance fee
  • An additional $100 nonresident fee per person
This applies whether you enter independently or as part of a commercial tour.

Parks Included in the Nonresident Fee Program

The new fee applies to the following national parks:
  • Acadia
  • Bryce Canyon
  • Everglades
  • Glacier
  • Grand Canyon
  • Grand Teton
  • Rocky Mountain
  • Sequoia & Kings Canyon
  • Yellowstone
  • Yosemite
  • Zion
These parks represent some of the most iconic and heavily visited destinations in the National Park System.

Updated Annual Pass Options for National Park Entrance Fees

  • Cost: $80
  • Valid for one year
  • Covers entrance fees at more than 2,000 federal recreation sites
America the Beautiful – Nonresident Annual Pass
  • Cost: $250
  • Covers standard entrance fees
  • Includes nonresident surcharges at all applicable parks
  • Valid for the pass holder plus up to three additional adults in the same vehicle or group
For international visitors planning to visit multiple national parks, the nonresident annual pass can provide significant savings compared to paying individual park fees.

Digital Passes and Easier Park Entry

Starting in 2026, national park passes are fully available in digital format through Recreation.gov. Digital passes allow travelers to:
  • Store passes on a mobile device
  • Reduce wait times at park entrances
  • Simplify entry for guided tours and group travel
Buffalo Roam Tours works seamlessly with both physical and digital passes to ensure smooth park access on every trip.

Fee-Free Days and Entrance Fees

Fee-free entrance days will continue in 2026, but with an important distinction:
  • Fee-free days apply only to U.S. residents and citizens
  • Non-U.S. residents must still pay entrance and nonresident fees on these dates
For international travelers, fee-free days will no longer reduce overall park costs.
Visitors entering Yellowstone National Park with updated 2026 national park entrance fees signage at the park entrance.
What 2026 National Park Entrance Fees Mean for Buffalo Roam Tours Guests?
At Buffalo Roam Tours, we help travelers navigate these changes so they can focus on the experience, not the logistics.
How to Plan Smart Under the New Fee Structure
  • Purchase passes in advance to avoid delays
  • Consider the nonresident annual pass if visiting multiple parks
  • Work with a guided tour operator to streamline entry, timing, and permits
  • Build itineraries that maximize value across multiple national parks
Our guided tours through Yellowstone, Grand Teton, and other premier parks are designed to make the most of your time while ensuring compliance with all National Park Service requirements.

If you have questions about park entry, passes, or how fees are handled on guided trips, visit our frequently asked questions for additional details.