Free National Park Pass for 4th Graders

Every Kid Outdoors Pass

I am a very strong believer in the importance of getting children out into nature where they will learn at a young age to respect the beauty of this world and protect it. Teaching them about our oceans, forests, mountains and streams is to teach them to love the outdoors and to take care of our public lands. If they do not have an appreciation for nature, how can we expect them to be good stewards of our planet and public lands?

I recently learned of something new that I had no idea even existed, and am thrilled to share it. It’s the free Every Kid Outdoors Pass - an annual national park pass for every 4th grader in the country.

FAQs

Must Ask Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Every Kid Outdoors pass?

The Every Kid Outdoors pass is a free annual pass available to every 4th grade student in the United States, designed to introduce kids and their families to the nation’s natural wonders and public lands. The pass is part of the Every Kid Outdoors program, a federal initiative that encourages exposing students to outdoor exploration and learning.

Who is eligible for the free 4th grade national park pass?

Every fourth-grade student in the United States is eligible for the free Every Kid Outdoors national park pass, including public, private, and homeschool students.

How do you get a 4th grade national park pass?

To get a free 4th grade national park pass, simply visit the Every Kid Outdoors website and complete a short activity to generate a paper pass.

How long is the Every Kid Outdoors pass valid?

The Every Kid Outdoors Pass is valid from September through August of the student’s 4th-grade year.

What does the 4th grade national park pass cover?

The 4th grade national park pass includes free entry to all national parks, national forests and grasslands, wildlife refuges, and other public lands and waters managed by the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 

Do parents or siblings get in free with the pass?

The Every Kid Outdoors Pass allows not only the 4th grader entry to national parks, but the entire family. When the pass is presented, everyone accompanying the passholder in the vehicle is permitted entry.

Are homeschooled 4th graders eligible for the Every Kid Ourdoor Pass ?

Yes., homeschooled 4th graders are eligible for the Every Kid Outdoor Pass in addition to private and public school students.

Can you use a pass on your phone?

The pass must be printed and signed by the student and brought with them on their visite. Electronic copies are not accepted. Once in the park, the pass can be exchanged for a durable annual pass at participating national parks, federal recreation sites, or ranger stations.