National Parks pass + National Forest campgrounds

[Foy]

Gents and ladies-

Been getting great ideas from these forums. Here's the latest: Investing in a one-year National Parks pass.

From the NPS website, it's fairly clear how it works: Purchase a single pass and EITHER of two signers are considered to own the pass. Then, it's good for admission for the bearer and any vehicle passengers, or the bearer and up to 3 other adults (where per-person fees are charged) at any Fed Recreational Fee area or National Park for one year. The listed participating agencies include the National Park Service, US Dept of Agriculture, and the Bureau of Land Management.

So, it seems that there's nothing to prevent my son and I from purchasing one, seeing the Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam en route to his California Navy base in late October, my wife and I using it up in Central Cali for about a week after that, and me just leaving it with him for use in and around Southern and Central Cali and AZ and NV after that. Does it seem that I understand the way the Pass can be used?

What's not apparent is this: Does the pass cover any and every sort of fee area within the group of "participating agencies"? It's been a while since I did much camping, but I recall many National Forest campgrounds have per night fees. Covered by the pass? Or, is just to cover entrance fees to particular attraction areas, like National Monuments and such? Lastly, would active duty military servicemembers even need a pass, or are they admitted with a discount or free to National Parks and such by virtue of their active duty status?

Thanks for any tips.

Foy

[UKCraig]

The pass doesn't cover camping or other activities such as guided tours. I do not know if you get discount for being in the forces but I wouldn't be surprised. Might be an idea to check with the NPS.

[Midwest Michael]

Yes, you and your son should be able to share the National Parks Pass like you've described. I've actually shared my pass with my parents, similar to how you described your plan.

No, the pass does not include "extra fees" for things like campsites or guided tours. It only works for entrance fees.

I'm not aware of any discounts for members of the military, but I couldn't find any information on the topic either way. You might try contacting the National Park Service for an answer to that question.

Here is the NPS website page about their various passes

[PNW Judy]

Gosh, even AAA gives one.

But I don't think you'll find information on that at the NPS. I think you will need to check with the various groups you belong to to see if they offer one.

[Mark Sedenquist]

Then, it's good for admission for the bearer and any vehicle passengers, or the bearer and up to 3 other adults (where per-person fees are charged) at any Fed Recreational Fee area or National Park for one year. The listed participating agencies include the National Park Service, US Dept of Agriculture, and the Bureau of Land Management.

All of that is true, but just remember that one of the signers has to be in possession of the card at all times -- the NPS employees will request photo ID!

The card is for Federal entrance fees ONLY -- camping is always extra!

Mark

[Carol White]

and remember that if you are 62+, your National Parks Pass is only $10 - for a lifetime pass! The greatest deal going!

Carol White