Wild Wanderers Almanac
National Parks on a Budget
Exploring National Parks on a Budget: Tips & Tricks
Visiting national parks is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the great outdoors. From breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife to thrilling hiking trails and historical landmarks, national parks offer unforgettable adventures. However, travel expenses—such as entrance fees, accommodations, food, and gear—can add up quickly. Fortunately, with the right planning, you can explore national parks on a budget without breaking the bank.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to exploring national parks on a budget, including money-saving tips, affordable lodging options, and how to make the most of your trip for less.
Plan Your Trip Around Free Entrance Days
One of the easiest ways to save money on a national park trip is by taking advantage of fee-free days. The National Park Service (NPS) offers several days each year when entrance fees are waived.
2025 Fee-Free Days (Example)
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Martin Luther King Jr. Day – January 20
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First Day of National Park Week – April 19
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Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act – August 4
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National Public Lands Day – September 27
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Veterans Day – November 11
By planning your visit around these dates, you can save anywhere from $5 to $35 per vehicle, depending on the park’s entrance fee.
Consider an Annual Pass
If you plan to visit multiple national parks in a year, purchasing an America the Beautiful Pass for $80 can provide unlimited access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including all national parks. There are also discounts for seniors, military personnel, and fourth graders through the Every Kid Outdoors Program.
Choose Budget-Friendly Lodging
Accommodations can be one of the biggest expenses during a national park trip. Here’s how you can save:
Camp Instead of Staying in Hotels
Camping is by far the most affordable lodging option when visiting national parks. Many parks have designated campgrounds, with fees ranging from $10 to $30 per night, compared to $100+ per night for a hotel or lodge.
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Book Early: National park campgrounds fill up quickly, especially in peak season. Reservations can be made at Recreation.gov.
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Look for Free or Dispersed Camping: Some areas near national parks allow free dispersed camping on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and National Forest land. Check with the local ranger station for details.
Stay in Budget Motels or Hostels Nearby
If camping isn’t your thing, look for budget motels, hostels, or Airbnb rentals near the park. Towns outside national parks often have cheaper accommodations than lodges inside the park.
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Example: Staying in Barstow instead of inside Death Valley National Park can save you over $100 per night.
Save on Food & Drinks
Dining inside national parks can be expensive. Here’s how to cut food costs:
Pack Your Own Meals & Snacks
Bringing your own food and snacks is the easiest way to save money. Stock up on groceries before heading to the park, as food prices inside national parks are often inflated.
Non-Perishable Foods: Trail mix, granola bars, canned goods, peanut butter, dried fruits.
Easy Camping Meals: Instant oatmeal, pasta, rice, sandwiches, and freeze-dried camping meals.
Reusable Water Bottles: Bring a large water container and refill it at designated water stations instead of buying bottled water.
Use a Camp Stove or Portable Grill
If you’re camping, a portable stove or grill allows you to cook your own meals instead of relying on pricey park restaurants. Many campgrounds have fire pits and picnic tables, making outdoor cooking convenient and enjoyable.
