Calling all adventurous fourth graders and their families! The Every Kid Outdoors program gives fourth graders free access to hundreds of national parks, wildlife refuges, forests, and more for a full year.
What is Every Kid Outdoors?
Started in 2015 by the U.S. Department of the Interior, Every Kid Outdoors aims to help kids fall in love with nature by offering a free annual pass to all U.S. fourth graders. The pass lets students and their families visit thousands of federal lands and waters without paying entrance fees.
Why fourth graders?
Around age ten—usually fourth grade—kids are at a great age to form lasting connections with the outdoors. They can understand and enjoy nature while still being strongly influenced by these experiences. The program encourages outdoor activity and teaches responsibility for caring for the environment.
How it works
Who’s eligible: Any U.S. fourth grader, including homeschooled students and free-choice learners.
Getting your pass: Visit the Every Kid Outdoors website, complete a short activity, and print a voucher for your free annual pass.
Using your pass: If a site charges an entrance fee, show the voucher at the ranger station for free entry. The pass is valid from September 1 through August 31.
Who the pass covers: The pass covers the fourth grader, up to three accompanying adults, and all kids under 16 in the group.
Where you can go
Use the pass at over 2,000 federal sites—national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, historic sites, and more. Many locations offer ranger programs, guided tours, and kid-friendly activities.
Make the most of it
– Start local: Visit nearby parks first to build confidence and plan longer trips later.
– Plan a road trip: Search parks by state or region to pick destinations everyone will enjoy—hiking, camping, history, or ranger programs.
– Become a Junior Ranger: Many parks have activity booklets and badges that teach kids about plants, animals, geology, and history.
– Try citizen science: Help with projects like bird counts, water monitoring, or plant surveys to learn and give back to the park.
Tips for safe, fun trips
– Pack essentials: sunscreen, bug spray, sturdy shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, snacks, water, and a basic first-aid kit.
– Leave No Trace: Pack out trash and follow park rules to keep places beautiful for others.
– Document memories: Take photos, write in a journal, or collect small items with permission to remember your trips.
Every Kid Outdoors is a chance to explore, learn, and make memories with your family. Get your pass, pack your bags, and enjoy a year of outdoor adventures—then share the experience with friends and family.