The National Parks and Federal Recreations Lands offer a free, lifetime Access Pass to US residents who have permanent disabilities. The pass provides free/discounted access to 2000 federal recreation areas and offers some discounts on other amenity fees like camping, swimming, or boat launching.
Disability Definition
Per the national agencies, a permanent disability is described as: permanent physical, mental, or sensory impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working.
How to Apply
You can apply for an Access Pass, either in person at a federal recreation facility, on-line at the USGS Store, or submit a paper application by mail. Print the application here.
If you choose to apply on-line, there is an on-line $10 processing fee and it will take approximately 4-5 weeks to receive the pass by mail. There is no fee if you apply for the pass in person.
I inadvertently discovered this list of sites that offer interagency passes. Be aware that it does say that the information could be incomplete and subject to change.
America the Beautiful, National Parks and Federal Recreation Lands Pass
Documentation Needed
Applicants will need identification, such as a drivers license, state ID, or a passport, as well as one of the following to prove permanent disability:
- Statement by licensed physician *Quote* (Statement must include: that the individual has a PERMANENT disability, that it limits one or more aspects of their daily life, and the nature of those limitations.)
- Document issued by a federal agency such as Supplemental Security Income or Social Security Disability Income.
- Document issued by a state agency such as the vocational rehabilitation agency.
Other Information
- The pass is non-transferable and non-refundable.
- Don’t loose it! The pass is not replaceable if it is lost or stolen! (However, with that said, I have read conflicting documentation as to whether the pass is replaceable.) Best bet – try not to loose it!
- There is no age requirement. If the Access Pass Holder is a child, the parents and caregivers are able to enter sites with them and sign documents.
- At entrance check points, a vehicle with the pass owner and 3 adults may enter. Children, 16 and under are always free.
What Agencies Honor the Pass?
The Forest Service, the National Park Service, Fish and Wildlife Service,
Bureau of Land Management, and Bureau of Reclamation will honor the Federal Access Pass at sites where entrance or standard amenity fees are
charged.
Federal Recreation Sites
For additional information on Federal recreation sites visit:
Federal Recreation lands.
Like discounts? Did you know that Amazon offers Prime discounts to persons who have a Medicaid or an EBT card? Read more at Amazon Prime Discount for Medicaid Card Holders.
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