Veterans Day at the National Parks

The National Park Service waives entrance fees on Veterans Day. In 2026, that is Wednesday, Nov. 11. The Interior Department lists it among the year’s fee-free days. Interior describes the 2026 fee-free days as resident-only, so the waiver applies to U.S. residents.

For people who served, free entrance does not depend on the date.

The National Park Service offers two free military passes that cover entrance and standard day-use fees at national parks, wildlife refuges, national forests and other federal recreation lands:

• Military Annual Pass: For current members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their dependents
• Military Lifetime Pass: For veterans, including those who served in the National Guard and reserve, and Gold Star families

Related: Veterans Day 2026

A pass admits the holder plus one private, noncommercial vehicle, up to two motorcycles, or the holder plus three people ages 16 and older where fees are charged per person. It does not cover camping, tours, special recreation permits, reservation fees, organized group fees or concession-operated facilities. Anyone who already holds another America the Beautiful pass does not need one.

How to Get a Pass Before Nov. 11

Passes are free when picked up in person at a site that charges an entrance fee. Current service members and dependents need an unexpired Common Access Card, DD Form 1173 or Next Generation Dependent ID. Veterans can show a DD Form 2, DD Form 2765, Veteran Health Identification Card, Veteran ID Card or a state driver’s license or ID card with a veteran designation. Gold Star family members bring a Gold Star Voucher.

A free digital pass is available through Recreation.gov. Ordering a physical pass costs $7.50 in shipping through Recreation.gov or a $10 processing fee through the USGS Store, and USGS orders can take weeks. People who want a card in hand before Veterans Day should plan to pick one up.

Related: 2026 Veterans Day Free Meals and Restaurant Deals and Discounts

What Else Parks Offer Veterans

The National Park Service says many parks have direct connections to the American military, including battlefields, military parks and historic sites that commemorate veterans’ service. Its military page also lists Military Families Outdoors, free health and wellness activities for active-duty service members and their families, along with a map of parks near VA and military facilities, stories of how time outdoors has helped veterans heal and volunteer opportunities for veterans.

Individual parks hold Veterans Day ceremonies, parades, concerts and service projects. The Park Service’s calendar, set to November, lists in-person and virtual events. The memorials on the National Mall have held Veterans Day wreath layings and ceremonies in past years, so check the site for the park you plan to visit.

Stay on Top of Your Veteran Benefits

Military benefits are always changing. Keep up with everything from pay to health care by subscribing to Military.com, and get access to up-to-date pay charts and more with all the latest benefits delivered straight to your inbox.