New Executive Order Prioritizes U.S. Access to National Parks, Increase Fees for Foreigners

President Donald Trump has signed a new Executive Order titled “Making Our National Parks Beautiful Again,” directing changes to entrance fees and access protocols at National Parks, including iconic sites like Yosemite, Lassen, and Redwoods.

The order calls for an increase in admission fees specifically for foreign visitors, with no specified amount yet. Simultaneously, it instructs the National Park Service to ensure U.S. residents receive priority in any reservation or permitting systems for park entry.

Announced during an Independence Day rally, Trump stated, “The National Parks will be about America first,” emphasizing his administration’s aim to improve access for domestic travelers.

According to the order, the additional revenue from foreign tourists is expected to generate “hundreds of millions” for conservation, infrastructure, and maintenance projects across the park system. Officials note that charging higher fees for international visitors is common practice in other countries and would help address the growing backlog of maintenance issues in U.S. parks.

While full implementation details remain unclear, this move signals a shift in park access policy that could significantly impact how both Americans and international tourists experience the nation’s public lands.