What To Know
- The park is part of the National Park Service, which charges an entrance fee to help maintain and improve the parks for visitors.
- You can purchase the entrance fee at the park entrance station, at visitor centers within the park, or online through the National Park Service website.
- Yes, you can use a credit card to pay the entrance fee at the park entrance station or online.
Yes, Yosemite National Park does have an entrance fee. The park is part of the National Park Service, which charges an entrance fee to help maintain and improve the parks for visitors.
Understanding the Entrance Fee Structure
The entrance fee for Yosemite National Park varies depending on the type of vehicle you are using to enter the park. Here is a breakdown of the fees:
- Private, non-commercial vehicle: $35 per vehicle
- Motorcycle: $30 per motorcycle
- Commercial tour bus: $150 per bus
- Commercial vehicle with 16 or more passengers: $300 per vehicle
Types of Passes Available
In addition to the entrance fee, you can also purchase passes that grant you access to multiple national parks for a period of time. These passes include:
- America the Beautiful Pass: $80 per year, provides access to all national parks and other federal recreation areas
- Senior Pass: $80 lifetime pass for individuals 62 years or older
- Access Pass: Free lifetime pass for individuals with permanent disabilities
- Military Pass: Free lifetime pass for active military members and their dependents
When Do You Need to Pay the Entrance Fee?
The entrance fee is required for all visitors entering Yosemite National Park by vehicle. You will need to pay the fee at the park entrance station upon arrival.
Where Can You Purchase the Entrance Fee?
You can purchase the entrance fee at the park entrance station, at visitor centers within the park, or online through the National Park Service website.
Exemptions and Discounts
There are a few exceptions and discounts available for the entrance fee. These include:
- Children under 16: Free admission
- Holders of the America the Beautiful Pass, Senior Pass, Access Pass, or Military Pass: Free admission
- Groups of 15 or more people: Discounted rate of $25 per person
Other Fees to Consider
In addition to the entrance fee, there may be other fees to consider when visiting Yosemite National Park. These include:
- Camping fees: If you plan to camp in the park, you will need to pay a camping fee.
- Backcountry fees: If you plan to hike or backpack in the park’s wilderness areas, you will need to pay a backcountry fee.
- Parking fees: If you are visiting the park during peak season, you may need to pay a parking fee.
Planning Your Visit
To plan your visit to Yosemite National Park, it is important to factor in the entrance fee and any other potential fees. By understanding the fee structure and available passes, you can budget accordingly.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: How long is the entrance fee valid for?
A: The entrance fee is valid for seven days from the date of purchase.
Q: Can I enter the park multiple times with the same entrance fee?
A: Yes, you can enter and exit the park multiple times during the seven-day validity period with the same entrance fee.
Q: What if I lose my entrance fee receipt?
A: If you lose your entrance fee receipt, you will need to purchase a new entrance fee.
Q: Are there any refunds available for the entrance fee?
A: Refunds are not available for the entrance fee.
Q: Can I use a credit card to pay the entrance fee?
A: Yes, you can use a credit card to pay the entrance fee at the park entrance station or online.
