Today, I’m excited to talk about a fantastic program designed to connect everyone, especially those with permanent disabilities, to our stunning national parks. The Interagency Access Pass (ACCESS), part of the America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass series, is an incredible resource provided for free to US citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. This pass can be your ticket to explore and enjoy the diverse landscapes our national parks offer, but it grants benefits far beyond free admission. So why wait? Let’s dive in and explore how this pass can open doors to unforgettable experiences!
Who Qualifies for an ACCESS Pass?
The pass is available U.S. citizens and permanent residents of any age with a medically diagnosed disability that severely limits one or more life activities. The disability does not have to be 100% to qualify. My husband qualifies due to his cancer diagnosis and the nerve damage in his hip post radiation treatment. I qualify thanks to my destroyed ankle, CRPS, and autonomic dysregulation.
How to Obtain an ACCESS Pass
Where to get an ACCESS Pass
For a fee of $10 to cover shipping and processing costs, you can apply for an access pass at the USGS online store. You’ll need to upload digital copies of your photo ID as well as documentation of your disability as mentioned above. The ACCESS Pass is a lifetime pass, so you only have to do it once.
You can also get an ACCESS pass in person at specific locations listed here and are not limited to national parks so it’s worth a look for a local in-person option. Dean and I got our ACCESS passes at Big Bend National Park. I was wearing my Exosym device and wasn’t asked for documentation. Dean showed his Social Security Disability letter and was given his. It took 5 minutes to get them issued to us both.
Documentation Requirements
Along with a photo ID such as a U.S. passport, driver’s license, or state-issued ID, you’ll need one of the following documents:
- A statement by a licensed physician (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.)
- A document issued by federal agency such as the Veteran’s Administration, Social Security Disability Income or, Supplemental Security Income
- A document issued by a state agency such as a vocational rehabilitation agency.
ACCESS Pass Benefits
Entrance and Amenity Fees Waived
Participating agencies include the National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, Bureau of Reclamation, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Forest Service, and US Army Corps of Engineers. In places where the entrance is per vehicle, the pass grants entrance to one vehicle or one motorcycle. In places where the entrance fee is per person, the pass grants access to the passholder and up to 3 adults. In all, there are more than 2200 federal recreation sites where entrance or standard amenity fees are waived by the following agencies:
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM)
- Bureau of Reclamation (Reclamation)
- Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS)
- USDA Forest Service (USDA FS)
- National Park Service (NPS)
- US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
Campground and Concessionaire Discounts
ACCESS Pass is more than just free national park entry. There are discounts on camping and some facilities, tours, and concessionaire offerings.
- Individual campsite discount: Applies only to the fees for the campsite physically occupied by the disabled person. Corps of Engineer campgrounds are an excellent value and you can search for them at the Corps Lake Gateway.
- Campsites with Utility Hookups: If utility fees are charged separately, there is no discount.
- Group Campsites and Facilities : There is no discount for group campsites and other group facilities that charge a flat fee. If the group campsite has a per person fee rate, only the pass owner receives a discount.
- Guided Tours: The pass offers discounts on some guided tours. Only the pass owner receives a discount if one is offered.
- Transportation Systems, Concessionaire Fees, and Special Use Permit Fees: (Inquire locally for discount information as these vary by location and concessionaires.)
Should You Apply for the ACCESS Pass?
For me, this is an easy yes even if you’re not comfortable labeling yourself as a person with disabilities. It’s a lifetime pass that is free and confers so many benefits that encourage us to get out and experience the world in whatever way we can. We don’t have to be able to hike long distances or climb rocks or even walk to enjoy federal recreation lands. If you qualify, what are you waiting for? Go get your ACCESS Pass and start exploring the federal recreation lands near you!