National parks offer an affordable way to experience otherworldly places without leaving the country.
The full number of sites is 429.
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If youre looking to boost your income this month, weve got just the thing for you.
Here are our best tips for exploring the national parks on a budget for your next family road trip.
How To Visit National Parks for Free
Whats better than traveling for free?
However, in 2023, the park raised camping fees and implemented a paid parking pass system.
The free Military Pass also applies to U.S. military veterans andGold Star familymembers.
The surviving immediate family members of service personnel who have been killed in conflict are awarded Gold Star status.
The USGS store also lists the sites where the Military Pass can be obtained.
Military Passes arent the only free annual passes offered by the NPS, but they are the most common.
National park access is just one of the manymilitary travel discountsavailable ahead of your next vacation.
National parks operate under the same guidelines.
If youre a regular visitor, youll save money by going the annual pass route.
Learn more by visiting theofficial government volunteer site.
Often, employment includes accommodations.
There are special considerations for students and people 55 and over.
Here are more details aboutpart-time workthrough the NPS.
Camp Inside the Park
There is an exception to every rule.
If you are comfortable with public showers (ornoshowers!)
and less-than-five-star sleeping arrangements, I highly recommend camping inside a national park.
Its a truly magical experience for outdoor enthusiasts.
Check out The Penny Hoarder primer oncamping on a budget.
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All you have to do is park outside the parks main entry and walk through the gate.
Parks typically charge cheaper entry fees for motorcyclists.
Bicyclists can expect to pay the same discounted rate as pedestrians.
Youll get plenty of exercise, and Mother Nature wont charge you a dime.
You will, of course, need the proper hiking gear.
Hereshow to find the best outdoor gear deals.
Use Free Shuttles
Some parks offer shuttle systems.
There, you might transfer to the park shuttle.
Planning Ahead
A little planning goes a long way when traveling.
With this plan, youll knock out three parks in one trip.
And dont forget to pack trash bags so you dont leave waste behind.
Do Your Homework First
Some parks are turning to timed entry reservations; no walk-ins allowed.
These reservations require (small) nonrefundable fees.
You brew coffee at home, you dont walk into Target and you refuse to order avocado toast.
(Can you sense my millennial sarcasm there?)
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