National parks provide opportunities to experience nature, support mental and physical health and connect with family and friends in a low-cost, accessible environment.

Transportation costs, equipment, admission fees or accessibility concerns may make the outdoors seem financially or physically out of reach, but because national parks are public spaces, many of these concerns can be reduced.

Outdoor recreation promotes physical well-being by increasing health-protective measures and reducing the risk of chronic disease. It also supports mental health by lowering stress and anxiety, promoting peace and relaxation and fostering social connection. Check out our other resources on the benefits of being outdoors for people with disabilities.

Since national parks are public lands that belong to everyone, they are required to have accessibility accommodations. And you can reduce the financial barrier through the America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Access Pass.

At a large discount for a lifetime pass, the America the Beautiful Access Pass grants U.S. citizens of any age the ability to have sustained access for a low cost. However, people with a documented, permanent disability that severely limits one or more major life activities can receive a free pass.

The pass grants access to over 2,000 federal recreation sites, including national parks, forests and wildlife refuges and provides discounts on some amenities, such as camping and guided tours at the various sites.

FAQs about the access pass:

• What documentation do I need to get a pass? A valid photo ID, such as a U.S. passport, driver’s license or state-issued ID in addition to one of the following:
  • A letter from a licensed physician stating that you are permanently disabled and includes the nature of your disability
  • A document by a federal agency, such as the Veterans Administration, Social Security Disability Income or Supplemental Security Income
  • A document issued by a state agency, such as a vocational rehabilitation agency
• Where can I get a pass?
  • There are over 1,000 federal recreation sites. You can find the nearest location online.
  • Order a physical pass online (passes may take up to three weeks to be delivered and receipts cannot be used for admission)
  • Get a digital pass for immediate use.
• I am not 100% disabled; do I still qualify for the free Access Pass? Yes! You still qualify for the free Access Pass if your disability severely limits one or more major life activities.
• How do I find out which US parks are accessible? The National Parks Service offers an online resource for people with disabilities for accessibility features of all parks.

Everyone deserves to experience the great outdoors, and thanks to the vast network of public land in the U.S., it can be affordable and accessible. Disability does not have to be a barrier to exploring nature, spending time with loved ones or discovering new places.

With programs and resources like America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Access Pass and the United Spinal Association’s Outdoor Access Working Group, you can be fully equipped to participate in outdoor recreational activities.

The United Spinal Association Outdoor Access Working Group focuses on improving inclusive access to outdoor recreation and nature-based activities for wheelchair users and people with disabilities. Check out these resources and let the adventures begin at one of over 2,000 federal recreation sites today!