Does the America the Beautiful Pass Cover State Parks?
The America the Beautiful Pass, also known as the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, is a popular pass issued by the United States government. It offers numerous benefits to visitors, including free entry to national parks and federal recreational lands. However, many people often wonder whether this pass covers state parks as well. In this article, we will explore the coverage of the America the Beautiful Pass and its applicability to state parks.
Understanding the America the Beautiful Pass
The America the Beautiful Pass is available in two forms: the $80 annual pass and the $20 lifetime pass. Both types of passes provide access to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites, including national parks, national wildlife refuges, national forests, and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas. Holders of this pass can enjoy free entry to these sites and often receive discounts on camping fees and other amenities.
State Parks and the America the Beautiful Pass
While the America the Beautiful Pass offers a wide range of benefits at federal recreational sites, it does not cover state parks. The pass is specifically designed for federal lands and does not include state parks, which are managed by individual states. This means that holders of the America the Beautiful Pass will need to pay the regular entrance fees at state parks.
Benefits of the America the Beautiful Pass
Despite not covering state parks, the America the Beautiful Pass still offers significant advantages to its holders. By providing free entry to federal recreational sites, the pass can save visitors a considerable amount of money over time. Additionally, the pass can be used for free entry to federal lands for up to four adults, making it an excellent option for families and groups.
Alternatives for State Parks
For those interested in visiting state parks, there are alternative passes available that may provide coverage. Some states offer their own state park passes, which can be purchased separately from the America the Beautiful Pass. These state-specific passes may offer free or discounted entry to state parks within that particular state.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the America the Beautiful Pass does not cover state parks. While it provides numerous benefits for federal recreational sites, visitors interested in state parks will need to purchase separate passes for those locations. However, the America the Beautiful Pass remains an excellent option for those who frequently visit federal lands and want to save on entry fees and camping costs.