National parks are some of the best travel value in the country. A little planning makes them even cheaper.
Know the fee options
Many parks charge a per-vehicle entrance fee that covers several days. If you plan to visit several parks in a year, the America the Beautiful annual pass covers entrance at national parks and many other federal recreation sites, and can pay for itself quickly. There are also passes for seniors, current military, people with permanent disabilities, and fourth graders. Check the official National Park Service website for current prices and rules.
Fee-free days
The National Park Service sets a few entrance fee-free days each year. Dates are posted on the NPS website. Expect bigger crowds those days.
Free parks
Many park sites charge no entrance fee at all, including many historic sites, memorials and some large parks. Search the NPS site by state.
Camp and cook
Campgrounds inside parks usually cost far less than nearby hotels. Popular ones book up fast, so reserve early through the official reservation system. Bring your own food; in-park dining is convenient but costs more.
Plan fuel and reservations
Big western parks can mean long distances between gas stations. Fill up before you enter. Some popular parks require timed-entry reservations in busy seasons, so check before you go.
Prices, fees and rules change. Check official sites before you travel.