Trump Signs New Executive Order That Will Impact Tourist Access To US Parks

Donald Trump has officially signed a new executive order that will bring a major shift for tourists heading to some of the most popular spots in the United States.

For many people around the world, the idea of hitting the open road in the US — especially with a campervan and a list of scenic destinations — is the ultimate dream vacation.

And with 63 national parks scattered across the country, there’s no shortage of jaw-dropping landscapes and outdoor adventures waiting to be explored.

But for those planning to explore these parks during their next trip to the US, there might be a new cost to consider. Trump’s newly signed order directs the national park system to increase entry fees specifically for foreign tourists.

According to the order, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum — who leads the National Park Service — has been asked to “develop a strategy” that would raise both entrance and recreation pass fees for visitors who are not US residents.

This change will apply only to parks that already charge admission. Trump said the decision is rooted in his commitment to putting “America first.” At present, entrance fees vary widely depending on the park.

Trump shared the news of his order at a rally in Iowa Chen Mengtong/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images

Speaking at a rally in Iowa on Thursday, July 4, Trump announced the new order and said: "To fund improvements and enhanced experiences across the park system, I've just signed an executive order to raise entrance fees for foreign tourists while keeping prices low for Americans. The national parks will be about America first."

To build on this approach, Trump has instructed the Interior Department to give US citizens “preferential treatment” over international visitors when it comes to any rules tied to recreation access — including systems like permits or lotteries that may already be in place.

Interestingly, the same order also tells the Secretary of the Interior to find ways to still “encourage international tourism” to US parks and recreation areas — even with the potential for higher costs.

Trump wants to put 'America first' with his order Getty Stock Photo

Alongside the new order, Trump also took steps to undo a previous move from Barack Obama’s administration. He officially revoked a memorandum that had promoted diversity and inclusion across the national park system during Obama’s final term in office.

Right now, there’s no set timeline for when these fee increases will roll out. It’s also unclear just how much the new charges could be.

That said, the Interior Department offered a projection in its 2026 budget proposal, released in May. It estimated that this kind of foreign surcharge could bring in over $90 million in additional funds each year.

This executive order also follows years of cutbacks to the National Park Service under Trump’s leadership. Since taking office in January, the administration has reduced the permanent workforce at the agency by roughly 24 percent — a number reported by the National Parks Conservation Association.