Olympic National Park offers free entry to active military personnel, veterans, and their dependents. This benefit includes a free annual or lifetime pass that covers entrance and standard amenity fees. The discount applies year-round without seasonal variations. Eligible individuals can obtain passes in person at the park or online through the USGS Store. While the pass covers entry fees, it doesn’t include camping, tours, or other special amenities.
What Are the Specific Military Discount Rates at Olympic National Park?
Olympic National Park provides free entrance to active military members, veterans, and their families. This generous offer includes:
- Free annual or lifetime passes
- Coverage of entrance fees
- Standard amenity (day-use) fees waived
It’s important to note that this benefit extends beyond Olympic National Park to other federal recreation sites as well. The discount remains consistent throughout the year, with no seasonal variations or special promotions.
Who Is Eligible for the Military Discount at Olympic National Park?
The military discount at Olympic National Park is available to:
- Active Military:
- Current members of the US Armed Forces
-
Dependents of active military personnel
-
Veterans:
-
Former members of the US Armed Forces
-
Gold Star Families:
- Next of kin of US Armed Forces members who lost their lives in qualifying situations
Each category has specific identification requirements to prove eligibility.
What Identification Is Required to Receive the Military Discount?
To receive the military discount, you must present valid identification. The requirements vary based on your status:
Active Military
- Department of Defense Identification Card (CAC)
- DD Form 1173
- Next Generation Dependent ID
Veterans
- Department of Defense Identification Card (DD Form 2, DD Form 2765, or Next Generation USID replacement)
- Veteran Health Identification Card (VHIC)
- Veteran ID Card
- Veteran designation on a state-issued US driver’s license or identification card
Gold Star Families
- Gold Star Voucher
Ensure you have the appropriate identification ready when visiting Olympic National Park to take advantage of this benefit.
How Can You Apply for the Military Discount at Olympic National Park?
Applying for the military discount at Olympic National Park is a straightforward process. You have two main options:
- In-Person Application:
- Visit Olympic National Park or another federal recreation site
- Present your valid military or veteran identification
-
Receive your free pass immediately
-
Online Application:
- Order the pass through the USGS Store
- Pay a $10 processing fee
- Wait for the physical pass to be shipped (may take several weeks)
The in-person option is generally quicker and doesn’t incur any processing fees. However, if you’re planning ahead or can’t visit a park in person, the online option provides a convenient alternative.
What Amenities Are Included in the Military Discount?
The military discount at Olympic National Park covers several key amenities:
| Included Amenities | Excluded Amenities |
|---|---|
| Entrance fees | Camping fees |
| Standard day-use fees | Tour costs |
| Access to lands managed by: | Special recreation permits |
| – National Park Service | Reservation fees |
| – Bureau of Land Management | Organized group fees |
| – Bureau of Reclamation | Concession-operated facilities |
| – US Fish and Wildlife Service | Concession-operated activities |
| – US Forest Service | |
| – US Army Corps of Engineers |
While the pass provides free entry and covers standard amenities, it’s important to budget for additional costs if you plan to camp, take guided tours, or participate in special activities within the park.
How Does the Military Discount at Olympic National Park Compare to Other Parks?
The military discount at Olympic National Park is part of a broader initiative across federal recreation sites. Here’s how it compares:
- Consistency: The free entry policy is uniform across national parks and federal recreation lands.
- Coverage: The pass is valid at over 2,000 federal recreation sites nationwide.
- Amenities: Similar to Olympic, other parks typically include entrance and standard day-use fees but exclude camping and special activities.
- Eligibility: The same eligibility criteria apply across all participating sites.
This consistency makes it easy for military personnel and veterans to enjoy America’s natural treasures without worrying about varying discount policies from park to park.
What Are Some Tips for Military Visitors to Olympic National Park?
If you’re planning a visit to Olympic National Park using your military discount, consider these tips:
- Plan Ahead:
- Check the park’s official website for current conditions and alerts
-
Make reservations for camping or special activities in advance
-
Bring Proper Identification:
-
Ensure you have the correct military or veteran ID to receive your free pass
-
Explore Diverse Ecosystems:
- Olympic National Park features rainforests, mountains, and coastal areas
-
Plan your itinerary to experience the park’s varied landscapes
-
Participate in Ranger Programs:
-
Take advantage of free educational programs led by park rangers
-
Respect Wildlife and Nature:
-
Follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park’s beauty
-
Consider Shoulder Seasons:
- Visit during spring or fall to avoid peak crowds while still enjoying good weather
By following these tips, you can make the most of your visit to Olympic National Park while honoring your military service.
References:
- https://www.myolympicpark.com/park/faqs/entrance-fees/
- https://www.nps.gov/planyourvisit/veterans-and-gold-star-families-free-access.htm
- https://news.va.gov/110751/free-lifetime-pass-to-national-parks/