In general, the big and well-known natural areas are in the western United States, while the smaller, historical areas are in the eastern United States. Most national park areas charge an entrance fee. Some parks charge by the vehicle while other charge by the person. If you plan to visit several park areas during the year consider buying a Golden Eagle Passport that permits a year of unlimited visits to all the parks. The year begins on the day you purchase the pass.
Special passes are available to seniors and the disabled.
Inquire about any of these passes at a park entrance station or visitor center. The Golden Eagle Passport is available to anyone and can be purchased by mail but a Golden Age Passport for seniors or Golden Access Passport for the disabled must be purchased in person. National parks sometimes offer lodging facilities, camping facilities, or both. Yellowstone National Park, a large and heavily visited national park has 9 lodges and numerous campgrounds. Likewise, Yosemite National Park offers 7 lodging facilities and many campgrounds.