A bombshell executive order from President Donald Trump is set to dramatically change how foreign tourists experience America's most iconic natural wonders.
According to the Daily Mail, Trump signed an order that will increase entry fees for international visitors at U.S. national parks while keeping costs low for American citizens.
The White House announced that the additional revenue generated from higher foreign tourist fees will fund hundreds of millions of dollars in conservation efforts and deferred maintenance projects to enhance the national park system. The executive order aligns with Trump's "America First" agenda by prioritizing access and affordability for U.S. residents.
The Interior Department, which oversees the National Park Service, has been directed to implement increased entrance fees for international visitors, though specific rate changes and timing have not yet been announced. The order also ensures that U.S. citizens receive priority access over foreign tourists in park permitting and reservation systems.
Trump justified the policy shift by noting that American citizens currently pay more than foreign visitors through both admission fees and tax contributions that support the parks. The White House statement emphasized this disparity needs correction to properly maintain these "splendid national treasures" for future generations.
The president announced these changes would help offset proposed budget cuts of over $1 billion to the National Park Service in fiscal year 2026, representing a reduction of more than one-third compared to the previous year. Park advocates have expressed concern about existing staff shortages being exacerbated by workforce reductions.
The president unveiled the national parks directive during a celebratory rally at the Iowa State Fairgrounds, where he also marked the passage of his "Big Beautiful Bill" through Congress. The event kicked off year-long festivities leading up to America's 250th birthday on July 4, 2026.
Trump reminded the enthusiastic crowd that he had promised Iowa would host the start of the "America 250" celebrations if re-elected. "Two years ago I came to Iowa and promised that the festivities would begin right here at the Iowa State Fairgrounds and tonight here I am, OK? Promises kept," he declared to cheers.
The rally followed Trump's major legislative victory earlier that day when the Republican-controlled House narrowly passed his comprehensive agenda package. The president plans to sign the bill during Fourth of July celebrations at the White House.
As part of the executive order, Trump also revoked a 2017 memorandum from former President Barack Obama that had promoted diversity initiatives within the National Park Service. The move signals a sharp departure from his predecessor's approach to park management and access.
The administration defended the policy change, stating it would help generate needed funding for maintenance and improvements while ensuring American families maintain affordable access to public lands. Critics argue the increased fees could deter international tourism.
Park Service staff have already been struggling with reduced workforce levels under Trump administration cuts. Industry experts suggest the new foreign visitor fees may help offset some budget impacts but warn against over-reliance on tourist revenue.
The executive order on national park fees represents one of Trump's most significant public lands policies as he heads into America's 250th anniversary celebrations. While keeping costs low for U.S. citizens, foreign tourists will soon face higher entrance fees at iconic destinations.
Implementation details and specific rate increases will be determined by the Interior Department in the coming months. The order stipulates that U.S. residents must receive booking priority for permits and reservations at all National Park Service sites.
These changes aim to generate substantial new revenue for conservation and maintenance while advancing Trump's "America First" approach to public lands management. The policy marks a clear shift from previous administrations' emphasis on broad accessibility and diversity in the national parks system.
