What is the Every Kid Outdoors Program?
The Every Kid Outdoors program is a popular initiative that allows fourth graders and their families to explore America’s national parks and federal lands for free. Originally launched as "Every Kid in a Park" in 2015, the program was created to encourage young children to connect with nature, learn about conservation, and experience the country’s vast public lands firsthand. Administered by the National Park Service (NPS) and other federal agencies, the program provides eligible students with a free annual pass, granting access to over 2,000 federally managed lands and waters, including national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and more.
If you have a fourth grader, this is an incredible opportunity to embark on an adventure-filled year of exploration and discovery in the family RV. Here’s everything you need to know about participating in the Every Kid Outdoors program.
Who is Eligible for the Every Kid Outdoors Pass?
The Every Kid Outdoors pass is available to all U.S. fourth graders, including homeschoolers and students in equivalent educational programs. The pass is valid for the entire school year in which the student is in fourth grade, extending through the following summer until August 31 of the same year.
How to Get the Every Kid Outdoors Pass
Getting a free Every Kid Outdoors pass is a simple process:
- Visit the official website: Head to Every Kid Outdoors to access the program’s online portal.
- Complete a short activity: Students will be prompted to complete an educational activity or quiz about public lands.
- Print the pass: After finishing the activity, you’ll be able to print a paper pass that grants free entry to federal lands and waters.
- Exchange for a physical pass (optional): Some locations allow you to exchange the printed pass for a durable, plastic version at select park visitor centers.
Note: Digital copies of the pass (on a phone or tablet) are not accepted—be sure to bring a printed version with you on your trip.
What Does the Pass Cover?
- Free entry to national parks, forests, and wildlife refuges for the fourth grader and up to three accompanying adults (or an entire vehicle at per-vehicle fee sites).
- Covers federal lands managed by multiple agencies, including the National Park Service, U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Bureau of Reclamation, and Army Corps of Engineers.
- Valid for an entire school year plus summer, from September 1 through August 31.
Related Article: Tips for Visiting National Parks
Where Can You Use the Pass?
The pass grants entry to more than 2,000 public lands across the country, including:
- National Parks like Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, and Yosemite
- National Forests such as Pisgah National Forest and White River National Forest
- National Wildlife Refuges like Bosque del Apache and Okefenokee
- Lakes and recreation areas managed by the Bureau of Reclamation and Army Corps of Engineers
For a full list of eligible sites, visit the Every Kid Outdoors website.
What’s Not Covered?
- The pass does not cover amenities like camping, guided tours, parking fees at certain locations, or special recreational permits.
- It does not include state parks—only federally managed lands.
- Commercial tour fees and fees for additional adults beyond the covered amount may still apply.
How to Make the Most of the Every Kid Outdoors Pass
- Plan a National Park Road Trip: With a full year of free entry, take advantage of the pass by visiting multiple parks. Consider hitting several national parks in one trip!
- Explore Lesser-Known Parks: While major parks like Yellowstone and Grand Canyon are popular, smaller national parks and historic sites offer amazing experiences without the crowds.
- Combine with the America the Beautiful Pass: If your family frequently visits national parks, consider purchasing an America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) for parents or older siblings who may not be covered by the fourth grader’s pass.
- Engage with Ranger Programs: Many parks offer Junior Ranger programs, guided hikes, and hands-on learning activities that enhance the experience.
Related Article: Private Campgrounds Outside of National Parks That Can Be Used As Base Camps
Time to Plan That Family RV Trip!
The Every Kid Outdoors program is an outstanding way for families to explore America’s natural wonders and take a break from paying the entrance fees. Encouraging children to engage with the great outdoors at a young age fosters a lifelong appreciation for conservation and adventure. If you have a fourth grader, don’t miss out on this chance to make the most out of the family RV and create lifelong memories while discovering the beauty of our national parks and public lands
