Photo: Camping / iStock / diy13

Know How to Save

A national parks trip can be a surprisingly cost-effective vacation. If you’re planning to visit more than one park in a year, consider an annual pass. Some parks don’t charge an entrance fee, but most of the popular ones do. For $80, America the Beautiful pass can get you and your car-full into any park that charges a fee for one year after purchase. High-traffic parks, like the Grand Canyon, Zion, and Bryce are $35 per vehicle for a seven-day pass. Once inside the park, there are presentations, ranger-led activities, and kid-friendly programs that are all complimentary. Adventurous travelers can save some money by opting to camp, but be sure to make arrangements in advance. Backcountry camping is usually free or pretty cheap (think: $5 per person) but requires a permit. Tent-only campground sites average around $20 per night for most parks. If camping isn’t your style, a stay at a major national park lodge can run $200 per night. You can also stock up on snacks and meals from nearby grocery stores to avoid paying for more costly restaurant meals.