Save a Buck: Summer Special Fees Waived for Three Weekends at 147 Nati...

Summer Special—Fees Waived for Three Weekends at 147 National Parks

The National Park Service will allow this summer at 147 National Park Service sites across the country. The fees will be waived June 20-21, July 18-19, and Aug. 15-16. National parks can provide an affordable vacation for families in tough economic times, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar said during the announcement earlier this month. At the same time, he said, they “serve as powerful economic engines for local communities, and we hope that promoting visitation will give a small shot in the arm to businesses in the area.” The declaration means, for instance, that travelers need not pay the normal $25 per vehicle entrance fee at , which is among the 147 sites that charge from $3 to $25 for admission. The 244 other sites do not charge entrance fees. The free weekend waiver does not include fees for camping, reservations, tours or concessions, which are provided by Park Service contractors. Salazar said many park partners—including tour operators, hotels, restaurants, gift shops and other vendors—will offer additional discounts and special promotions on those dates. The Park Service is also receiving federal stimulus funds to upgrade trails, conduct maintenance and upgrade services throughout the system, Salazar said. Michael Zielenziger writes on economic and consumer issues for AARP Bulletin Today. Cancel You are leaving AARP.org and going to the website of our trusted provider. The provider’s terms, conditions and policies apply. Please return to AARP.org to learn more about other benefits. Your email address is now confirmed. You'll start receiving the latest news, benefits, events, and programs related to AARP's mission to empower people to choose how they live as they age. You can also by updating your account at anytime. You will be asked to register or log in. Cancel Offer Details Disclosures

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