Visiting America’s nationwide parks is about to get dearer for worldwide vacationers, however that is not the one change ordered by President Donald Trump that may affect park guests.
A new government order requires charging non-U.S. residents increased charges for park entry and recreation passes, just like the yearlong America the Stunning cross, which grants entry to public lands throughout federal companies.
“From the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon to the tranquility of the Nice Smoky Mountains, America’s nationwide parks have supplied generations of American households with unforgettable reminiscences,” Trump mentioned within the order issued July 3.
“It’s the coverage of my Administration to protect these alternatives for American households in future generations by rising entry charges for overseas vacationers, bettering affordability for United States residents, and increasing alternatives to get pleasure from America’s splendid nationwide treasures,” he mentioned.
The order additionally requires giving Individuals “preferential therapy with respect to any remaining leisure entry guidelines, together with allowing or lottery guidelines.”
Any income generated by increased charges from overseas vacationers can be funneled again into infrastructure enhancements and different enhancements throughout federal recreation websites.
The Grand Canyon Nationwide Park welcome signal is seen from a view close to Tusayan, Arizona, U.S. June 28, 2025. REUTERS/Kaylee Greenlee
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Unrelated, the chief order additionally revokes a presidential memorandum signed by then-President Barack Obama in 2017 that promoted a spread of variety and inclusion efforts within the administration of nationwide parks and different public lands.
It known as for bettering entry for all Individuals and “contemplating suggestions and proposals from various populations to guard at-risk historic, cultural, and pure websites.”
Range and inclusion have been additionally priorities for parks in the course of the Biden administration.
Earlier than leaving workplace in January, then Nationwide Park Service Director Chuck Sams instructed USA TODAY: “Once I took my oath of workplace on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, Secretary (Deb) Haaland mentioned, on behalf of the president of america, myself and the American individuals, I am charging you with these monuments, memorials and parks, however extra importantly, we’re charging you to seek out these tales which are much less instructed or have not been instructed but, and to inform them fiercely.
“So during the last three-plus years, working all throughout the park system, we have been in a position to inform tales to make sure that each American sees a mirrored image of themselves within the parks,” he mentioned.
However the newest transfer comes after Trump on his first day again in workplace in January ordered an finish to authorities variety, fairness, and inclusion packages established underneath Biden.
USA TODAY has reached out the Inside Division and Nationwide Park Service for touch upon the brand new government order.
This text initially appeared on USA TODAY: Trump orders nationwide parks to cost some vacationers increased charges
