Spending time in nature can be incredibly healing. Whether it’s walking through the woods, visiting a national monument, or sitting beside a river, public lands offer peace, connection, and restoration. For many people with disabilities, these spaces can also be critical to health and well-being. But access to these healing spaces hasn’t always been equal.

That’s where the USGS Access Pass comes in. This free, lifetime pass is available to U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. It allows entry to over 2,000 federally managed recreation sites—from national parks to wildlife refuges—without entrance fees.

While the pass itself is free, applicants must pay a $10 fee for shipping and handling, and it’s only issued as a physical card sent by mail. That means you’ll need a stable mailing address, internet access, and the proper documents to qualify—requirements that can still be challenging for some. We recommend contacting 211 in your area for assistance in finding additional resources to support your needs. 

Here’s what you need to apply:

• Proof of permanent disability (e.g., a doctor’s note or government benefits statement)

• A U.S. mailing address

• A $10 payment for processing and shipping

Why does this matter? Because access to nature shouldn’t depend on ability, income, or bureaucracy. It should be right. And for too long, many people haven’t known this pass exists.

Features of the Access Pass:

• Free entrance to federal recreation sites such as national parks, forests, and monuments.

• Discounts on expanded amenity fees, including camping, boat launching, and guided tours at many locations.

• Covers the pass holder and accompanying passengers in a single, private, non-commercial vehicle.

• Lifetime validity — no need to renew or reapply.

At Save Our Families, we believe that access is justice. Healing happens in nature, and more people should be able to get there. That’s why we’re spreading the word.

Ready to apply or help someone who might qualify?

⛓️‍💥Click here to apply