Did you know your fourth grader can get your whole family into National Parks and more than 2,000 federal recreation areas for free?
The Fourth Grade Pass program from the National Park Service encourages kids to get outside and explore. During their fourth grade year, you can fill out a short survey and print the pass for free admission. The pass will be good for September 1 – August 31.
How to Use the Fourth Grade Pass
Print off the pass before you leave on your adventure. Simply show the pass at the entrance gates and at most parks, your car will get in for free! The ranger will hand you a more permanent pass. Depending on how many parks you visit during your kid’s fourth grade year, you can save hundreds of dollars!
Every Kids Outdoors Program
The pass is funded by the Every Kids Outdoors Program. The program focuses on children 10 years of age—the age of most fourth graders—based on research that indicates children ages 9–11 are at a unique developmental stage in their learning where they begin to understand how the world around them works in more concrete ways and they are more receptive to engaging with nature and the environment. By focusing on this age group year after year, the program aims to ensure every child in the United States has the opportunity to visit their Federal lands and waters by the time he or she is 11 years old, thereby establishing a lifelong connection to enjoy and protect our American outdoor heritage.
Other Passes
If you’re a frequent National Park visitor but don’t have a fourth grader, you can purchase an America the Beautiful pass.
Junior Ranger Programs
Don’t forget to check out the Junior Ranger program when you visit! Check out our guide here.
