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• Travel Tips

National Park Passport Book: Where To Purchase And Collect Stamps

Published: December 14, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Jewelle Constantino

• Plan Your Trip
• Sustainability
• Travel Essentials & Accessories

Introduction

The National Park Passport Book is a must-have for any avid traveler or nature enthusiast. It serves as a commemorative keepsake and a practical tool for exploring the multitude of national parks spread throughout the United States. This small booklet allows visitors to document their park visits by collecting unique stamps at each location, providing a tangible memento of their adventures.

Whether you’re a beginner hiker or a seasoned explorer, the National Park Passport Book offers an exciting way to track your progress and showcase your love for the great outdoors. It serves as a personal record of all the national parks you have visited, making it a cherished item for years to come.

Not only is the National Park Passport Book a symbol of your achievements and experiences, but it also serves as a guide, offering valuable information about each park. It contains maps, important details about the park’s history, wildlife, scenic spots, and recommended trails. It’s like having a personalized guidebook that accompanies you on your journey to discover the diverse beauty of America’s national parks.

In this article, we will explore the significance of the National Park Passport Book, where to purchase it, how to collect stamps, and some helpful tips for making the most out of your passport book experience. So, grab your backpack and let’s embark on an exciting journey through the amazing world of the National Park Passport Book.

What is the National Park Passport Book?

The National Park Passport Book is a compact, pocket-sized booklet that serves as a travel companion and collector’s item for anyone exploring the national parks in the United States. It is published by the National Park Service and is designed to capture and commemorate your visits to these iconic locations.

Inside the National Park Passport Book, you’ll find a dedicated space for each national park in the country. Each page features a beautiful illustration of the park, along with essential information and areas for stamps and other park-related mementos.

The primary feature of the National Park Passport Book is the stamping system. Each national park has its unique rubber stamp, typically located at visitor centers, park entrances, or ranger stations. These stamps are used to mark your visit, capturing the date and location of your adventure. Additionally, some parks also offer optional cancellation stamps for specific events or anniversaries.

The National Park Passport Book goes beyond just collecting stamps. It also provides space for recording memories, such as notes, photos, and personal reflections of your experiences in each park. This makes it a cherished keepsake that you can look back on for years to come.

Furthermore, the passport book includes detailed information about each national park, including the park’s size, history, wildlife, and notable attractions. It serves as an informative guide, offering insights and recommendations to help you make the most of your visit.

The National Park Passport Book is not limited to just national parks. It also includes pages for national historic sites, national monuments, and other designated locations. This means you can expand your passport collection beyond the traditional national parks and delve into the rich history and unique wonders of these sites.

Overall, the National Park Passport Book is a delightful and practical tool for recording your visits to the national parks and other protected areas across the United States. It serves as a tangible reminder of your adventures and allows you to create lasting memories while immersing yourself in the beauty of nature.

Importance of the National Park Passport Book

The National Park Passport Book holds significant value for both seasoned explorers and beginners venturing into the world of national parks. Here are some key reasons why the passport book is important:

1. Commemorative Keepsake: The National Park Passport Book serves as a tangible keepsake that captures the memories of your national park visits. Each stamp represents a unique location and experience, creating a personalized travel log that you can treasure for a lifetime. It becomes a physical representation of your love for nature and adventure.

2. Track and Document your Progress: With over 400 national parks and sites in the United States, it can be a challenge to keep track of the places you’ve explored. The passport book provides a systematic way to document your progress and ensures that no park goes unnoticed. As you collect stamps, you can see your list of visited parks grow, motivating you to keep exploring and discovering new destinations.

3. Educational Resource: The passport book offers more than just a place to collect stamps. Each page contains valuable information about the park, including its history, geology, wildlife, and notable landmarks. It serves as an educational resource, allowing you to learn about the natural and cultural significance of each national park you visit.

4. Inspires Future Adventures: The act of collecting stamps can be incredibly inspiring. It ignites a desire to visit new parks, discover different landscapes, and experience diverse ecosystems. As you flip through the pages of your passport book, you may find yourself planning future trips and setting new goals for exploration.

5. Connection with National Parks Community: The National Park Passport Book is a common thread that connects travelers who share a love for national parks. It creates a sense of community, allowing you to connect with fellow adventurers and exchange stories and tips. It’s a great conversation starter and can lead to building new friendships with like-minded individuals.

6. Encourages Responsible Tourism: By collecting stamps and learning about each park, you develop a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and conservation efforts in place. It encourages responsible tourism, fostering a desire to leave no trace and protect these precious natural resources for future generations.

The National Park Passport Book is not just a simple booklet; it holds immense importance for those who seek to explore and appreciate the wonders of America’s national parks. It’s a gateway to unforgettable experiences, a source of lifelong memories, and a symbol of your commitment to preserving and celebrating these remarkable natural treasures.

Where to Purchase the National Park Passport Book

If you’re excited to start your National Park Passport Book journey, you might be wondering where you can get your hands on this essential travel companion. Here are a few options:

1. National Park Visitor Centers: One of the most convenient places to purchase the National Park Passport Book is at visitor centers located within the national parks themselves. These centers usually have gift shops or bookstores that offer a wide selection of park-related merchandise, including the passport book. When you arrive at a national park, head to the visitor center to inquire about availability and make your purchase.

2. Online: If you prefer the convenience of online shopping, you can find the National Park Passport Book on various websites. The official National Park Service (NPS) website is a reliable source to purchase the passport book. Additionally, popular e-commerce platforms and websites specializing in outdoor gear and travel supplies may also have the passport book available for purchase. Just ensure you are buying from a reputable seller to guarantee the authenticity of the product.

3. Bookstores and Gift Shops: Local bookstores, outdoor retailers, and gift shops located near national parks or in nature-oriented communities often carry the National Park Passport Book. These stores recognize the appeal of national park enthusiasts and often have a selection of adventure-related products. Visit these establishments and inquire about the availability of the passport book in their inventory.

4. Passport Cancellation Stations: Some national parks have specific passport cancellation stations where you can find the passport book for purchase. These stations may be separate from the visitor centers and are often located near park entrances or popular trailheads. Keep an eye out for signs or ask park rangers about the availability of the passport book at these designated locations.

5. National Park Association and Nonprofit Organizations: Various nonprofit organizations, such as the National Park Foundation or specific park associations, may offer the National Park Passport Book as part of their fundraising efforts. Supporting these organizations not only allows you to obtain the passport book but also contributes to the preservation and improvement of national parks.

Remember, availability may vary depending on the location and season, so it’s always a good idea to check in advance or call ahead to ensure you can purchase the National Park Passport Book from your preferred source. Once you have it in your hands, you are ready to start your adventure and fill those pages with stamps and memories.

Collecting Stamps in the National Park Passport Book

The highlight of the National Park Passport Book is undoubtedly the stamping process. Collecting stamps allows you to commemorate your visits to national parks and other protected areas. Here’s how you can start collecting stamps in your passport book:

1. Find Park Stamping Locations: When you arrive at a national park, head to the visitor center, ranger station, or other designated locations to find the park’s unique rubber stamps. These stamps are often located at information desks, park entrances, or visitor center bookstores. Look for signs or ask park staff for assistance.

2. Obtain the Stamp: Once you locate the stamping location, simply open your National Park Passport Book to the corresponding page and place it on a flat surface. Use an ink pad provided at the stamping station and carefully press the rubber stamp onto the designated area in the passport book. Gently lift the stamp to avoid smudging, and allow it to dry before closing the book.

3. Optional Cancellation Stamps: In addition to the standard rubber stamps, some national parks offer optional cancellation stamps for specific occasions or anniversaries. These stamps feature unique designs and can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your passport book. Keep an eye out for any special events happening during your visit, as they may coincide with the availability of cancellation stamps.

4. Record the Date: After obtaining the stamp, be sure to write down the date of your visit next to the stamped image in the passport book. This helps you keep track of your travels and adds an extra layer of detail to your collection.

5. Explore Stamp Locations: Certain national parks have multiple stamping locations within their boundaries. These additional stamp locations are often situated in different areas of the park, allowing you to further personalize your collection. Wander off the main trails and visit these hidden stamping locations to experience diverse perspectives of the park.

6. Collect Extras: While the primary purpose of the National Park Passport Book is to collect stamps, don’t be afraid to add other mementos and personal touches. You can include park brochures, postcards, or even small photographs to enhance the memories associated with each park visit. Get creative and make your passport book a unique representation of your national park adventures.

7. Complete the Collection: The ultimate goal is to collect stamps from as many national parks as possible. Challenge yourself to visit different parks and strive to collect stamps from each one. Set goals, plan trips, and embark on new adventures to complete your stamp collection and create a remarkable keepsake of your national park journey.

The National Park Passport Book and the process of collecting stamps provide a fun and interactive way to engage with the national park system. It encourages exploration, connects you with the parks’ unique stories, and creates lasting memories of your outdoor adventures.

How to Use the National Park Passport Book

The National Park Passport Book is a versatile tool that not only allows you to collect stamps but also serves as a valuable guide and record of your national park visits. Here’s how to make the most of your passport book:

1. Plan Your Park Visits: Before embarking on your national park journey, take some time to research and plan your visits. The passport book can serve as a great starting point for identifying the parks you want to explore. Use the book’s maps, park descriptions, and recommended trails to help you plan your itinerary.

2. Obtain the Passport Book: Purchase your National Park Passport Book from the designated locations mentioned earlier. Make sure to secure it before your first park visit to start collecting stamps from the beginning.

3. Carry the Passport Book: Always keep your passport book with you when visiting national parks. It’s compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry in your backpack or pocket. Having it on hand allows you to stamp your book right after your park visit and ensures you don’t miss any stamping opportunities.

4. Locate Stamping Stations: Upon arriving at a national park, find the stamping locations, typically located at visitor centers, ranger stations, or park entrances. Look for signs or inquire with park staff to locate the stamps and any additional cancellation stamps.

5. Stamp and Record: Open your passport book to the corresponding park page and carefully stamp the designated area using the provided ink pad. After stamping, write down the date of your visit next to the stamped image to document your park experience.

6. Explore the Park: The passport book is not only for stamp collection. Use the book’s information pages to learn about the park’s history, animal species, hiking trails, and notable landmarks. Let the passport book be your guide as you explore the wonders of each national park.

7. Collect Memories: As you visit national parks, collect additional mementos, such as brochures, tickets, or small photographs, and include them alongside the stamps in your passport book. These extras will enhance your memories and make your book a more personalized keepsake.

8. Share Your Journey: Share your passport book journey with friends, family, or fellow travelers. Use social media or create a blog to document your national park adventures and showcase your growing stamp collection. Engage with others who share the same passion for exploring the great outdoors.

9. Set Goals and Keep Exploring: Challenge yourself to visit new national parks and set goals to collect stamps from as many locations as possible. Use the passport book as motivation to continuously explore and discover the diverse landscapes and natural wonders that the national park system has to offer.

The National Park Passport Book is not just a collector’s item but also a valuable companion to enhance your national park experiences. Utilize it as a guide, a record, and a source of inspiration as you embark on memorable journeys through the stunning beauty of America’s national parks.

Tips for Collecting Stamps in the National Park Passport Book

Collecting stamps in the National Park Passport Book is an exciting and rewarding experience. To make the most out of your stamp collection journey, consider the following tips:

1. Plan Your Route: Before starting your national park adventure, plan a route that allows you to visit multiple parks in a specific region. This way, you can collect stamps from several parks in one trip, making your collection more diverse and extensive.

2. Research Stamp Locations: Research and find out the specific stamping locations within each national park. Some parks may have multiple stamping stations at different visitor centers or landmarks. Knowing these locations will ensure that you don’t miss out on any opportunities to collect stamps.

3. Arrive Early: Stamping locations can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. Arriving early in the day gives you a better chance of accessing the stamps easily and avoiding long lines or waiting times.

4. Bring Extra Supplies: While most stamping stations provide ink pads, it’s a good idea to carry extras, just in case. Consider bringing a small bottle of ink, damp paper towels for cleaning stamps, and a pen for recording the date of your visit.

5. Protect Your Passport Book: Keep your passport book safe from the elements by placing it in a waterproof or protective sleeve. This will prevent any damage from accidental spills, rain, or rough handling during outdoor activities.

6. Engage with Park Staff: Park rangers and staff are knowledgeable about the parks and can offer valuable insights. Strike up conversations with them, ask questions about stamping locations, and gather recommendations for must-see areas or hidden gems within the parks.

7. Explore Less Popular Parks: While many national parks draw large crowds, don’t overlook the lesser-known, smaller parks. They often have unique stamp designs and offer a more serene and intimate experience. Exploring these hidden gems can add a sense of discovery and exclusivity to your stamp collection.

8. Attend Special Events: Some national parks host special events or anniversaries, offering exclusive stamps or cancellation stamps. Keep an eye out for these events and plan your visits accordingly to maximize your collection with these unique stamps.

9. Enjoy the Journey: Remember that collecting stamps in the National Park Passport Book is not a race. Take your time to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of each national park. Enjoy the trails, soak in the breathtaking landscapes, and create lasting memories. The stamps are just a reflection of the remarkable experiences you’ve had.

10. Share Your Collection: Share your stamp collection journey with others. Display your passport book proudly, share photos on social media, or create a blog to document your adventures and memories. Celebrate your stamp collection accomplishments and inspire others to embark on their own national park explorations.

By following these tips, you can enhance your stamp collection experience, create a meaningful collection of park visits, and make the National Park Passport Book a cherished keepsake of your outdoor adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions about the National Park Passport Book

Here are some common questions that people have about the National Park Passport Book:

1. Can I use the passport book for international national parks?

No, the National Park Passport Book is specifically designed for national parks and sites within the United States. However, some international parks may offer similar stamping programs or their own passport books.

2. Can I stamp the passport book if I visit a park multiple times?

Absolutely! The passport book is meant to document each visit you make to a national park. Feel free to collect a stamp every time you revisit a park, as each visit brings new experiences to record in your book.

3. Can I purchase the passport book at any national park?

Most national parks have the passport book available for purchase at their visitor centers or designated gift shops. However, there may be rare instances where a park has sold out or temporarily suspended sales. Before your visit, check the park’s website or call ahead to confirm availability.

4. Can I use the passport book for non-national park locations?

Yes! The passport book includes pages for national parks, national monuments, national historic sites, and other designated locations. It allows you to expand your collection beyond national parks, providing a comprehensive record of your visits to various protected areas.

5. Can I add extra pages to the passport book?

The National Park Passport Book does not have refillable pages or add-on options. Once you have filled all the available pages, you can start a new passport book to continue your stamp collection.

6. Is the passport book necessary to visit national parks?

No, the passport book is not required to visit national parks. It is primarily a personal keepsake and collector’s item. However, it enhances the experience by allowing you to document and commemorate your visits to different parks.

7. Can I stamp the passport book if I forget to bring it with me?

Unfortunately, you can only collect stamps when you have your passport book physically present. If you forget your passport book, you can always stamp a separate piece of paper and attach it to your book later as a remembrance of your visit.

8. Can I purchase a passport book online and start collecting stamps?

Yes, you can purchase a National Park Passport Book online and start collecting stamps on your park visits. Be sure to buy from authorized sellers to ensure the authenticity of the book.

9. Can I collect stamps if I visit a national park virtually or through a guided tour?

Stamps are typically collected in person by physically being present at the park’s stamping location. However, virtual tours or guided tours may have special arrangements for obtaining stamps or digital badges. Check with the park or tour provider for any alternative stamping options.

10. Is there a limit to the number of parks I can collect stamps from?

There is no limit to the number of parks you can collect stamps from. Feel free to visit and collect stamps from as many national parks as you desire. The passport book is designed to accommodate a variety of park visits and can be a lifelong journey of exploration.

If you have any further questions or concerns about the National Park Passport Book, it’s recommended to contact the National Park Service or the specific national park you plan to visit for assistance and clarification.

The National Park Passport Book is a remarkable travel companion that allows you to collect stamps and document your visits to national parks and other protected areas. It goes beyond being a simple booklet; it holds the power to ignite a sense of adventure, connect you with nature, and inspire exploration.

As you collect stamps in your passport book, each one becomes a cherished memory of a national park experience. It serves as a personal record of your achievements and a testament to your love for the outdoors. The passport book becomes a conversation starter, a way to connect with other travelers, and a reminder of the incredible diversity of landscapes and ecosystems across the United States.

When you purchase your National Park Passport Book and start collecting stamps, you embark on a journey of discovery. The stamps not only mark the parks you have visited but also symbolize the stories, memories, and connections you have made along the way.

Remember to plan your visits, research stamp locations, and engage with park staff to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Use the passport book as a guide, record your adventures, and add personal touches to make it a truly unique memento.

Whether you’re an avid traveler seeking to explore every national park or a family looking for an educational and fun activity, the National Park Passport Book is a valuable tool. It serves as a gateway to amazing adventures and a tangible record of the incredible landscapes, history, and culture that our national parks offer.

So, grab your passport book, hit the trails, and start collecting stamps. Unleash your inner explorer, connect with nature, and create lasting memories of your national park journey.

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National Park Passport Guide: Which One to Get and How to Use it

* This article contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you.

Everything you need to know about the National Park Passport book, including which one to choose and how it works. 

Are you someone who likes to travel to the national parks? Do you like to commemorate your trips, but don’t like loading yourself down with chotchkies? I know I don’t. 

Or are you a parent to a few competitive kids, looking for an economical and fun way to remember your camping adventures without needing to buy a new souvenir at every park?

The national park passport book is the solution for you. 

Don’t be confused by the name, the passport book is not required for park entry. 

It’s simply a small journal you can take to a park visitor center to have it stamped with a special park insignia to remember your trip. 

Interested in learning more about this decades-old National Park Service tradition? 

Read on to learn more about the national park passport and how you can get started with it today.

Note: this post contains affiliate links, which help run this site at no extra cost to you so I can keep providing free travel advice and tips.

Table of Contents

What is the National Park Passport and How Does it Work?

The national park passport program was dreamt up in 1986 as a way to boost interest in the parks (and man, the parks certainly don’t have that problem today!). 

The national park passport is kind of like your regular passport. It documents which national parks you’ve been to with a dated stamp that is placed in a compact notebook. 

The notebook has several spaces per park since many national parks have more than one stamp (or you may want to get the same stamp every time you visit). 

The main difference is that you don’t need a national park passport for entry into the national park. 

Most parks participate in the national park passport program, and given that there are over 400 national park units (including national battlefields, national seashores, national monuments, and national historic parks), you should have plenty of places to visit. 

The way it works is simple: buy a passport book ahead of time in the online store or at the visitor center once you arrive at your destination. 

Once you have the book, you can add free stamps, also called cancellation stamps.

The parks also make unique stamps to commemorate special events, like the 2016 centennial anniversary of the park service. 

Get your FREE California Travel Planner – including printable checklists and my favorite two-week itinerary for the state. 

How do I get a National Park Passport?

You can purchase a national parks stamp book via the non-profit America’s National Parks Shop or each park visitor center.

I advise you to buy the book ahead of time online since many visitor centers remain closed due to the pandemic. 

Additionally, even if the visitor center is open, you may miss the operating hours, or they may not have the version of the passport you want, and that would be a bummer. 

You can also buy similar books on big retail websites, but I encourage you to buy di]]\rectly from park stores or the America’s National Parks shop. 

The reason for this? 100% of the purchase proceeds go to support the parks. 

Where do I Stamp My Passport at Each National Park?

National park passport stamp locations are typically located in the visitor center of each national park; however, some parks have many different stamps in several locations. 

For example, Grand Canyon National Park has stamps at the visitor centers. 

However, they also have different stamps at Indian Garden and Phantom Ranch, which are small campgrounds/ranger stations. 

And they have some at Kolb Studio and the Yavapi Geology Museum, which are both museums/gift shops. 

Luckily, America’s National Parks online puts together an updated list of cancellation station locations here . 

The cancellation station is typically set on a podium or desk. It may be signed and will consist of a rubber stamp with a moveable date (so you can document the date you received the stamp).

You will often see scrap pieces of paper where people tested the stamp before placing it in their book. 

The Three Types of National Park Passports

Passport to your national parks classic edition.

Cost: $12.95

Features: Compact size, 112 pages, spiral-bound, softcover

Best for: National park adventurers on a budget

The Passport to Your National Parks Classic Edition is, well, the original version of the national park passport. 

The classic edition passport is a 6’’ x 4’’ soft-sided, spiral-bound book with 112 pages to stamp. 

The classic edition offers plenty of dedicated space to collect the regular national park stamps and the unique commemorative cancellation stamps. 

It also includes an official map of every national park and a color-coded guide for parks in different regions. 

Passport to Your National Parks Collector’s Edition

Cost: $29.95

Features: Bigger size, tear-resistant cover, extra space for added pages

Best for: Serious national park lovers 

If you know you’re someone with the “collecting gene” and you’re serious about your national park bucket list, the Collector’s Edition is the choice for you. 

The Passport to Your National Parks Collector’s Edition is a bit more expensive than the classic edition but has several added features. 

The collector’s edition is a little bigger at 7.5’’x10’’, but has a new lightweight design that is also tear-resistant and weather resistant. 

The collector’s edition national park passport book has 192 pages with additional pages for the special annual stamps that come out every year (up to 2029). 

It also has room for expander pages, which is a very useful feature because new national parks and park units are added to the National Park Service almost every year. 

Like the classic edition, the collector’s edition also has a national park service map of all the park units with color-coded sites by region. 

It’s also a soft-sided, spiral-bound book, but the collector’s edition features a space in the front cover to write your name and contact information. 

This is good to have in case you accidentally set your passport down in a visitor center. 

Passport to Your National Parks Junior Ranger Edition

Cost: $14.95

Features: Educational content on each park and park-themed stickers. 

Best for: Tiny park fanatics

The Junior Ranger Program is a beloved national parks program that inspires kids to learn about good stewardship of the parks and rewards them with wooden or plastic “ranger” badges. 

It’s v cute. 

The Passport to Your National Parks Junior Ranger Edition is perfect for the kiddo in your group. 

The passport book is 9’’x7’’ with 100 brightly colored and illustrated stamp pages. 

The Junior Ranger Edition also includes education about each of the parks and, the main selling point for the 7-year old inside me, park-themed stickers. 

Tips for Collecting National Park Stamps

Plan Your Trip in Advance

The number one tip I have for collecting national park stamps is to plan your trip in advance. 

Look on the park website to find the visitor center’s hours of operation.

If your national park adventure isn’t complete unless you get all your stamps, make a list of all the visitor centers and ranger stations with stamps. 

That way you won’t have to wait until your next trip to catch ‘em all. 

Pro Tip: Save money and purchase an America the Beautiful Pass .

Make Sure the Date is Correct

When people collect stamps at visitor centers, they can adjust the date on the stamp to today’s date. Make sure the date is correct!

Test the Stamp First

This tip goes out to all my Type As out there. There should be a pad of paper sitting at the cancellation station so you can test the stamp out first. 

If you’re like me and like neat lines and clearly legible stamps, be sure to do a test stamp first to double-check you have enough ink and pressure on the cancellation stamp. 

FAQs About the National Park Passport

Can you still get National Park Passport stamps?

Yes, even with the pandemic and the closing or shortening of many visitor centers’ hours, you can still collect national parks program stamps. 

What if I forgot to pack my passport? Can I still get a stamp?

Yes! If you forgot to pack your national park passport, you can still participate in the passport stamping. 

All you have to do is take one of the sheets of scrap paper available, stamp it, and then tape the stamp into your passport book.

Or, if you forget to stamp your passport at the national park’s visitor center before you leave (or if the center is closed), some parks offer a printable version of the stamp. 

Sure, it isn’t as satisfying as pressing the ink stamp into your passport book in person, but it’s better than missing out on the stamp entirely. 

Finally, some parks will mail you a stamped piece of paper if you send them a stamped self-addressed envelope. Contact the park in advance to make sure this is the case. 

Why are National Park Passport stamps called cancellations?

National park travel stamps are called cancellation stamps as a nod to the US postal service. 

The postal service uses a round ink-based mark called a “cancellation” over the sticky stamp you place on an envelope to signify a stamp has been used and cannot be used again. 

How many national park stamps are there?

There are hundreds of official national park stamps, and the number changes every year. 

Almost every national park unit (remember national monuments, national historic sites, etc are also part of the National Park System) participates in the program. And many parks have several cancellation stamps to choose from. 

In addition, the National Park Service designates new park units almost every year, and they will often make a unique cancellation stamp to mark special anniversaries. 

The official cancellation stamp program, run by America’s National Parks, isn’t the only agency making collectible stamps and stickers either. 

Other non and for-profit companies may sell similar products. 

No matter how many stamps there are, make sure your passport book has enough room for extra pages so that you can commemorate all your national park adventures in the future. 

What can I do if I’m missing a stamp?

If you’re missing a national park passport stamp for your passport, the simplest way to complete your stamp set is to visit that park.

If you can’t squeeze in a trip to the national park visitor center you’re missing, some parks offer virtual tours of select trails. 

After these virtual tours, you can sometimes download the stamp online and write in the date you “visited.”

Is a National Park Passport Worth it?

Yes, a national park passport is absolutely worth it. 

They’re reasonably priced ways to commemorate your national park adventures, and the purchase of a national park passport book supports the functions of the National Park Service. 

Plus, getting your passport stamp at each new cancellation station is kind of addicting!

Best National Park Passport Accessories

Collector’s expander pack.

The Collector’s Expander Pack for the national park passport gives you extra pages to add to your passport if it fills up. 

The expander pack comes with 14 pages that can be inserted into your national park passport without any special tools. 

The pages can then be used to collect stamps from more national parks, but they also have dedicated space for the special “National Stamps” or “Regional Stamps.”

Note that the classic edition of the passport may not support the expander pack, only the collector’s edition does. 

Stampable Sticker Sets

The Stampable Sticker Sets for the national park passport are a great thing to have on hand if you forget your passport or you want to share a stamp with a friend. 

I also think they make great ways to seal an envelope. 

The sticker sets may be sold at the national park visitor center you’re in, but I’d still recommend getting them from the official online store just in case. 

The stickers are made of smudge-resistant paper and work in the classic edition passport, the collector’s edition, and the Junior Ranger edition. 

Passport Stamp Set

Every year, dating back to 1986 when it all began, America’s National Parks puts out a Passport Stamp Set featuring 10 of the national park units. 

No need for a messy ink pad! The stamps, more like stickers, fit in a dedicated space in the passport and include educational information about the individual national park featured. 

The Book Pin is a super cute little pin in the shape of a national parks passport. And the pin actually opens and shows a gold outline of a cancellation stamp. 

This would be a super cute accessory to go with a Junior Ranger vest (which is sold in national park bookstores).  

Leather Passport Cover

If you’re set on visiting all 423 national parks and national park units, your passport is bound to get a little raggedy in the process. 

The Leather Passport Cover is a very elegant way to protect your classic edition passport. 

Alternatives to the National Park Passport: Other Ways to Keep Track of Parks Visited

The national park passport books are an excellent way to preserve your memories of national park adventures, but here are some more ideas to record your trips. 

These are a few other fun ways to celebrate your time in the national parks. 

National Park Passport Journal

The Letterfolk National Park Passport Journal is a smaller, more personalizable alternative to the traditional passport books. 

The book is 3.5’’x 5.5’’, so it won’t take up much space and includes more room for journal entries.

You can record your impressions of the parks, favorite memories, or who you traveled with, and it has a blank space so you can still collect the cancellation stamps. 

The journal has 48 pages, which is more than enough for most casual national park geeks. 

National Park Journal & Guide

The National Park Journal & Guide is a travel-sized leather-bound guidebook featuring all 63 national parks. 

The journal includes maps of each park and lists of helpful phone numbers for each park. 

The National Park Journal & Guide makes a great stocking stuffer or national park gift for that national park weirdo in your family. 

The thing I like about this item is its small, compact size and the fact that it includes a map of each national park. 

Now, the maps may not be big enough to give you trail directions, but oftentimes I just need a birds-eye view of the whole park while I’m visiting and don’t have cell service. 

National Park Scratch-Off Poster

The National Park Scratch-Off Poster is a trendy, minimalist-inspired poster with a gold panel for 63 national parks. 

Once you’ve visited one of the national parks, you gently scratch off the gold covering to reveal a retro-style mini illustration of the park behind it. 

I can definitely see this as a framable piece of wall art and it would be perfect for someone looking to decorate a new place who loves exploring America’s parks.

Interactive National Parks Poster

If national park passport stamps aren’t your thing, this Interactive National Parks Poster is an alternative way to get inspired to visit the national parks. 

This poster features all the national parks represented by a beautiful high color photo. 

The whole thing kind of has a National Geographic vibe, and you can select the option to buy a frame to hang it with. 

The poster is interactive in that each park has a checkbox next to it that you can check off once you’ve visited. 

National Park Stickers

Remember how I said America’s National Parks isn’t the only organization making national park passport stickers? 

That was an understatement. Everyone and their mom is making National Park Stickers these days, and you know what, I’m not mad about it. 

If you prefer stickers to stamps, you can make your own national park sticker book!

There are a million sticker options out there, and I particularly like these because the pack includes one for each national par,k and they’re bigger than the NPS passport stamps. 

My cooler and water bottle still have space on them; therefore I need more stickers. 

Collectible Pins

If you love the national park passport stamps, but you’re more of a pin person (hey, they’re out there), America’s National Parks has a solution for you. 

They offer Collectible Pins that look like the cancellation stamps! Well, sort of. They’re round and include the name of the park. 

Of course, you won’t be able to add your special date of visit, but these would make a great gift if you have one very special park that you love. 

Collectible Patches

If you’re looking for a way to decorate a backpack or jacket, look no further than Passport to Your National Parks Collectible Patches . 

The collectible patches look just like the collectible pins, but you can iron them on. I like patches because they give off a kind of retro aesthetic and can really personalize a piece of clothing. 

Collectible Walking Stick Medallions

Last but not least, America’s National Parks makes Collectible Walking Stick Medallions which can be affixed onto a walking stick. 

I have a few of these on my OG walking stick, albeit not from this organization, and they really personalize my walking stick and make it more of a keepsake and less of a dowel rod (which is what it was). 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Meredith Dennis

Meredith is a biologist and writer based in California’s Sierra Nevada. She has lived in six states as a biologist, so her intel on hiking and camping is *chef’s kiss* next level. One of her earliest camping memories was being too scared to find a bathroom at night on a family camping trip. Thankfully, she’s come a long way since then and she can help you get there too!

Looking for more national parks travel inspiration? Check out my related posts below!

Epic California National Parks Road Trip

National Parks in California: A Guide to All 9 Parks

Things to do in Yosemite National Park

San Francisco to Yosemite Road Trip

Experiencing the Yosemite Firefall

2 Days in Yosemite Itinerary

Pinnacles National Park Guide

Things to do in Death Valley National Park

Ultimate Guide to the Best Redwoods in California

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Hi, I'm Mimi! I'm an outdoorsy Californian who has spent over 28 years immersed in the incredible natural beauty that California has to offer. My goal is to inspire others to get out and find their next adventure in California. Whether it’s escaping to an alpine lake in the Sierras, finding peace among the giant redwoods, or road tripping down the PCH, there’s always more to explore in this beautiful state.

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The Roaming Monk

National Park Passport Stamps: The Ultimate Guide

Are you ready to turn your national park visits into memories? Then check out National Park Passport Stamps. Also called National Park Cancellation Stamps, this program is your way to collect unique souvenirs and chronicle your outdoor adventures (for free)!

What are National Park Passport Stamps? A Treasure Hunt for Park Explorers

There are currently 430 National Park sites in the United States and there is at least one unique stamp for each of them that you can use to commemorate your visit. The ‘stamps’ are rubber ink stamps that have the name of the park, date and location. They resemble a visitation stamp used on international passports, which is why the program is called the Passport to Your National Parks . 

Beyond the main stamp program, there are also special stamps that commemorative National Historical Trails, special anniversary stamps, along with stamps at National Forests, Bureau of Land Management, lighthouses, Junior Ranger, and other ‘bonus’ stamps that can be obtained. In all, there are over 8,000 different stamps to collect!

The History and Purpose of National Park Passport Stamps

Eastern National is a Non-profit organization founded in 1947 to help our National Park System and other public lands with educational products. The National Park Passport Stamp program was developed in 1986, to help their mission to promote visitation to our National Parks. Officially called the “Passport to Your National Parks” program, net proceeds help fund educational and interpretive programs at National Park Service sites. 

Why are National Park Passport Stamps called Cancellation Stamps?

The stamps resemble a cancellation stamp used on international passports, which is why the program is called the Passport to Your National Parks.  That said, they don’t effectively cancel anything and are just a way to commemorate your visit to the park. International passport cancellation stamps usually render a passport invalid for future travel. 

It seems the use of the term ‘cancellation stamp’ was used as an analogy to international passport usage, but the exact origin is not entirely clear.  I tend to not use the ‘Cancellation’ term as it is a little confusing and frankly inaccurate.

Why Collect National Park Passport Stamps?

• It is a fun way to document your National Park adventures and track your progress.
• The act of collecting the stamps creates a personalized record of your travels and experiences.
• Provides a deeper connection to our national park system and a its mission.
• Collecting is fun!

Read more about our National Park Guides

Types of National Park Passports

Choosing the right passport:  classic, collector, explorer or junior ranger.

These passport stamps are pretty neat, and now I want to start collecting them.  So, now what? Eastern National sells three ‘passport books’ that you can use as your own adventure journal, illustrating your journey and travels.

Classic: The small blue version is by far the most popular. Pocket sized, perfect for dropping in a backpack or a pocket in your cargo pants, and full of information. Additional page inserts can be purchased as well, so you can cram a ton of stamps in this little book!

Collector: A larger spiral book that includes all the information in the blue classic book and more. It has a dedicated section for each park along with a place to up a special regional stamp sicker. 

Explorer : Is designed around a seven-ring binder and its own zip up case. The value with this book is in its flexibility, as you can buy inserts, or make your own pages to express your journey in your own way.

Junior Ranger: The Junior Ranger Passport Book is an interactive adventure guide for kids aged 5-12, packed with fun facts, activities, and colorful illustrations. There is a special Junior Ranger stamps at specific National Park Sites that can be used in this book.

Learn more about these books including a comparison chart on my article about the Best National Park Passport book.

Official National Park Passports vs. Third Party Alternatives; Understanding the difference

One thing to keep in mind is that there are key differences between the four official passports sold at Park visitor centers across the country and third-party books. You may find a 3rd party alternative on Amazon or another site that is unique and fits the style of your collecting, which is great. 

However, keep in mind that while there are a wide variety of options, the proceeds of these books do not contribute to park conservation or education programs. With the official passports you get high quality , consistency and the satisfaction with knowing you are supporting America’s National Park Service.

Explore Alternative Park Documentation Tools: Journals, Scratch off Maps/Posters, and More

Outside of the official passport books and third-party knockoffs, there are also several other options for personalizing your stamping collection and travelogue.

• You can use a normal moleskin journal to not only record the stamp but also jot down your reflections, capturing the sights, sounds and emotions of your journey. Maybe even sketch a cool image.
• Personalized stickers : If you have a color inkjet printer, use sticker sheets and print pictures of you in the national park or site.  You can then put the sticker in your journal or even in your national park passport.
• There are several scratch-off interactive maps or posters that reveal visited parks, transforming them into visual trophies of your outdoor conquests. I have one poster and also a cool coffee mug.  Every time I am sipping my cup of joe, it reminds me of our travels.

Using Your National Park Passport

Getting started: where to buy your national park passport book.

National Park Passport books can usually be found at National Park sites. The larger National Parks locations have larger gift shops and of course more options and accessories for you to purchase. If you are eager to start or need to prepare for a trip you can go to America’s National Parks on-line store and purchase all your supplies, there. This eStore is run by East National and is a non-profit organization where proceeds go to help information programs at National Park Sites

Where do you find the National Park Passport Stamps?

You can find a list of all the stamps that have been release by Eastern National by going to their web site.  It is a daunting list of 429 sites! Eastern National Stamp List .   

I would also suggest visiting and joining the National Parks Travelers Club . For only a few dollars a year you get access to the clubs Master Database, that is dutifully curated by the thousands of members to ensure accuracy. It is well worth the investment.

Additionally, the club provides access to tons of useful information, a yearly convention of like-minded ‘stampers’, and local meetups as well. Their active forum is also a way to get clarity from the wealth of knowledge and experience of the members.

Discover the Regions: How National Park Passport Stamps are Organized

Navigating your National Park Passport may seem daunting, but the stamp organization is fairly simple. Your passport is divided into nine regions, each with their own color. Find your desired park’s section, then locate the designated space for its unique stamp. 

Remember, some parks offer multiple stamps at different locations, so be sure to explore thoroughly and document your full park experience.

Recording Your Journey: Personalize Your Passport with Stickers

Since 1986, Eastern National has released a regional stamp set, which are a collection of colorful stickers with beautiful photographs that highlights one park for each of the nine regions, plus a larger National Stamp. These stickers have a special location in each of the three passport books that enhances the book with a collection of great photos and added information about the different parks. 

While certainly not necessary, it is a way to breathe some context and life into an otherwise stale set of pages. I use them in my Collector’s edition book, adding one for each park I visit.

Deep Dive into the National Park Stamps

Different stamps:  national park sites, lighthouse stamps, special bonus stamps, etc..

The primary stamp offering is the National Park stamps, that can be found at each of the 430 parks sites in the United States, but there are other surprises on this journey. 

Bonus stamps can be found at some locations, some of which are quite unique. I enjoy finding these gems along my journey and look forward to seeing the collection growing. My favorite so far is the cute alligator from the Shark Valley Visitor center in the Everglades National Park.

Explore, Collect, Preserve: Lighthouse Passport Stamp Program

For avid collectors of National Park Passport stamps, you might have noticed intriguing lighthouses adorning some park sites. Did you know there’s an entire Lighthouse Passport Program supported by the United States Lighthouse Society?  

This program offers a dedicated passport book where you can document your collection.  With space for 60 stamps, it is a great way to memorialize your collection.  Importantly, they ask for a small $2 donation when you collect your stamp that directly supports lighthouse restoration and preservation projects. 

Check out my article that explores the stamps, benefits, and how you can contribute to preserving these maritime structures.

What to do if you are missing National Park passport stamps?

At the start of our stamping journey, we had already visited at least 14 different NPS properties in the past. Was there really a way I could travel back in time and get these stamps? The answer is of course, Yes!   

By sending personalized letters to the missing National Park Service sites with a self-addressed stamped envelope (SASE), we have been able to reach out and request these missing stamps. Imagine our delight when, after just two weeks, we received replies from five amazing locations! 

What was truly special was the response from FDR National Historic Site and Vanderbilt Mansion . Not only were they the quickest to respond, but they surprised us with a nice handwritten letter! They even apologized for some slightly “imperfect” stamps, which only makes them more charming. A simple letter, combined with pictures and genuine appreciation, can open doors and provide an even stronger connection to our National Parks.

Ready to send out your own letters? Here are some tips:

• Personalize your letters to each park, mentioning specific things you enjoyed.
• Include a few photos from your visit.
• Include some passport stampable stickers, or an expander page.
• Be polite and complimentary.
• Don’t forget the SASE!

Essential Extras: 4 Travel Accessories to Complement Passport Stamp Collecting

To be fully prepared on your stamping escapades, I would suggest adding several items to your travel bag. These of course will depend on your collecting goals, where you are heading and how you travel.

Additional Page inserts :  Depending on which book you buy (see the list here), you can buy inserts that you can easily add to the book.  This is great if you want to just bring a page and not your entire book on a trip as well.

Passport Stampable Stickers :  Another option is the stampable stickers. There are three round stickers that fit the stamps and can be easily carried. I usually have one with me just in case!

Baby wipes :  Sometimes the stamps can get gunked up and do not generate a clear stamp. Baby wipes are really good at cleaning the stamp so you can reapply the ink to get a crisp stamp.

Stamp pad and ink :  While it is not common, it can happen. You finish an awesome national park experience, and you find the stamp pad is dry as a bone.  Having your own stamp pad can avoid relying on a park ranger or shop employee. If you are really gung-ho, you can get a different color for each region.

Beyond Stamps

Responsible park exploration: leave no trace principles.

Whenever you visit a national park or other public land, a great thing to keep in mind is the Principle of Leave No Trace. My son’s Boy Scout Troop really helped reinforce this, not only to me but to our entire family. In following the principles, it can ensure that our parks remain as pristine as possible for everyone. Below are the key seven principles but you can learn more about Leave No Trace in this article.

• Plan Ahead and Prepare
• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces
• Dispose of Waste Properly
• Leave What You Find
• Minimize Campfire Impacts
• Respect Wildlife
• Be Considerate of Other Visitors

Remember, take only pictures and leave nothing but footprints!

Expand your Park Experience:  Great Resources, Community groups and more

What are some of the best resources to tap into for an incredible park and Stamping experience?

The obvious choice is The National Park Service site. It full of great information and one of the best resources to help you plan National Park visits and find passport stamps. A must before making any visit, as operating times and access to certain locations can change seasonally.

Another key point, they consistently post up-to-date impacts to National Park sites impacted by local issues. Something as simple as an early closure due to a broken air conditioning unit on a hot summer day, or a road closure can be found.

Another good choice is the America’s National Par ks site. This non-profit runs the gift shops and stores at over 150 NPS locations. The proceeds support educational, interpretive, and preservation efforts at nearly 170 national parks. They are the ones who provide the National Park Cancellations stamps, and they keep a monthly list of all stamp locations .

The National Park Travelers Club is an amazing resource for any National Park Visitor. The club provides networking and resources to its members who are a dedicated group of National Park enthusiasts. For only a few dollars a year you get access to the club’s Master Database of the National Park cancellation stamps.

This is a great resource, which is dutifully curated by the thousands of members to ensure accuracy. Joining the club gives you access to their forum which is a super way to gather a wealth of knowledge from other stamping enthusiasts.

Final Thoughts on National Park Passport Stamps

While collecting National Park Passport stamps gives you a sense of adventure and achievement, you really can get more out of it than you put in. Each park you visit, each stamp collected, gives you more information about our nation, the people, and their stories.

The National Park Passport program isn’t just a collection of colorful souvenirs; it’s a way to expand your appreciation for all our national sites.

Start your Adventure Today

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your passport book , embark on your next national park adventure, and start collecting those stamps!

State Park Passport Stamp Programs

Looking something more than the National Park Passport program? Did you know that there are also Passport stamp programs in 25 U.S. States?

Here are the first three programs are on the list:

• Arizona: Passport for Fun- A free passport book is available, and you can win a free Arizona state park annual pass as well!
• Arkansas: Called Club 52 for the 52 park sites in the program. Arkansas offers a free stamp book as well.
• California: Offers a digital app to allow you to track your progress to the largest number of state parks in the nations, 280.

See if your state is on the list:

Check out the Roaming Monk Blog to learn more about our journey!

Related Posts:

Hello! My name is Dennis, and I am a husband, father, traveler, thinker, photo taker, trail walker and National Park stamp collector. I am on an ultimate journey to visit all 429 National Park units in the United States. The Roaming Monk was started to share the journey and to provide tips, ideas, and guides to our National Parks.

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• 2024 Pacific Northwest Convention Agenda
• 2024 Convention Preview Video (YouTube)
• 2024 Convention Save-the-Date
• Region Rotation Info
• Instructions
• See Recipients

Welcome to the National Park Travelers Club

Watch the 22nd nptc convention meeting live from portland, or now.

Welcome to the National Park Travelers Club! Discovering America One Park at a Time

• Create a site user account by clicking on “New User” (above) to begin browsing our general forums (FREE). You will also have limited access to other site features as well as a two-week free trial period of the Master Database.
• If you have previously created a user account (paid member or not), please contact the Membership Director ( [email protected] ) if you have forgotten your user name or you have changed your email. If you are a previous paid member please do not create a new account. Any information you have entered in the MDB will not be transferred to a new account, i.e. awards, park counts, stamp entries.
• If you wish to become a paid member and enjoy all of the benefits of the site, you can join for $10 for the first year, and $5 for subsequent years (subject to change, and in compliance with the by-laws).

Master Database

The NPTC's Master Database (MDB) is an application designed as a resource for trip planning and for tracking your progress in collecting Passport to your National Parks passport stamps. All information is crowdsourced by NPTC members and updated daily. Non-NPTC members will receive a 2-week trial access to the MDB; then it is restricted to dues-paying NPTC members only.

Certificate and Awards

As an NPTC member, you'll be eligible to receive recognition of your progress in visiting the US National Park Service units. Awards include the Master Traveler Award, given annually to members who visit and collect stamps from a certain number of units a year, the Lifetime Achievement Award, awarded when an NPTC member visits 100, 200, 300, 400 or more units, and more!

Community and Forums

The NPTC is made up of members just like you -- people who love our National Parks! We talk, breathe, and live the National Parks and what they represent. While any Parkstamps.org user can take part in our general forums, as a dues-paying NPTC member you'll have additional access to forums on Trip Reports, Passport Stamp Collecting and Trading, fun NPS Quizzes, and more!

Is The National Parks Passport Worth It?

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: October 24, 2022

UPDATED: June 26, 2024

If you’re heading to any of the US National Parks , you should consider purchasing a national parks passport to help document your adventure. This is a great way to support the parks and its completely free to collect the popular ink stamps at each park you visit.

In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know including what we like and don’t like about the passport.

2024 Update : Use code ‘ WHEREARETHOSEMORGANS ‘ to receive 15% off your entire oder at America’s National Parks . However, this discount can not be used for any order with the National Park Pass.

Disclaimer : We received a National Parks Passport in order to share our opinion about this product but this is not a sponsored post.

Our Passport Experience

We’ve driven around the US twice visiting as many national parks as possible. And unfortunately, we didn’t know about the cancellation stamps until half way through our second trip. But it’s never too late to start collecting so no matter where you are on your national park journey, you can still purchase a passport book.

Personally, we think it’s incredibly fun to collect the stamps. But there are four different kinds of passports so we highly recommend you read our entire guide first before purchasing one because one may work better for you compared to the others. Read more  about us .

What Is A National Parks Passport?

A National Parks Passport is a small guidebook with blank spaces that allows visitors to add various ink stamps and stickers for every park visited. We always like to compare it to a travel passport because it works in a very similar way.

In 1986, the non-profit Eastern National, now known as America’s National Parks , created the Passport To Your National Parks® program. Their goal with this program is to help visitors preserve memories and experience the beauty of the US National Parks.

The idea is extremely simple because there is only one initial cost of the passport book and the stamps are completely free to collect. However, there are commemorative stamp sets released every year and these are an additional cost.

However, all net proceeds from the passport system are donated back into the educational programs managed by the NPS. So not only are you able to document your travels, but you’re also supporting the national parks with every purchase.

READ : 20 best National Parks in the US

What Are Cancellations Stamps?

Cancellations are round 32mm ink-based rubber stamps that record the name of the national park including the date of your visit. These are similar to the stamps used by the modern day post office on a piece of mail to show that the stamp has already beed used.

Most national park cancellations list the park name across the top with the park location, city and state along the bottom of the stamp. However, you can change the date which is often found in the center of the stamp.

So to stamp your passport at a park, you need to find the passport cancellation station. They are often located near the bookstore, visitor center or you can just ask a ranger.

Travel Tip : Make sure you always check the date on the stamp before using it in your book!

READ: National park quotes

How Many Stamps Can You Collect?

In total, there are over 400 national park service units including parks, monuments and historical sites. Once you purchase a passport, you’ll receive a detailed map like the one above showcasing all of these park units across the United States. We highly recommend using this map as a starting point.

Every national park will have at least one cancellation stamp with many of the larger parks offering numerous stamps for different sections in that park. For example, Yellowstone National Park has 20 official stamps including stamps for regions such as Mammoth, Old Faithful, Tower Falls, etc.

After researching many databases online, we found varying numbers on how many national park stamps currently exist. But we can conclude there are over 3,000 official national park cancellation stamps and about 490 anniversary stamps. If you have a Junior Ranger, there are another 485 stamps to collect.

If you’re looking for a specific stamp location, the best way to find it is through the America’s National Parks website.

This link will give you the official list to every cancellation stamp supplied by the Passport To Your National Parks® program. The list is updated every month and new listings are highlighted in red.

Planning to camp?  Use our exclusive  free trial of The Dyrt PRO  to snag a reservation at sold out campgrounds in US national parks by using Dyrt Alerts.

Types Of Passport Books

There are four different national park passports. Depending on how many parks you plan to visit, a certain edition may suit your needs so we’ll go over each option in detail.

1. Classic Edition

This is the smallest passport available with 112 pages. It’s a spiral-bound soft cover book featuring park sites color-coded by region. This is the first book we started with and we liked the addition of the color coded regional map.

• Dimensions : 6″ x 4″
• Price : $12.95

Here are a few pros and cons to the Classic edition:

• Lightweight postcard size is perfect for travel
• The soft cover is durable and pages are firmly attached
• Spiral bound spine makes it easy to add extra pages
• It’s the cheapest edition option
• 112 pages only gives you 4-5 pages for each individual region
• Expander packs will be required if visiting many national parks
• Would need about 4 books if collecting from every national park
• Limited information about the national parks

>> Buy the Classic edition here

2. Collector’s Edition

The Collector’s edition is a larger passport book with 192 pages. It’s a spiral-bound option with a dedicated space for each national park stamp. We think this is a great option for those who frequent the national parks.

Park sites are divided by region with each area showcasing a colored map with specific locations. This edition also includes official pages for annual National Stamps though 2029.

• Dimensions : 7.5” W x 10” H
• Price : $29.95

Here are a few pros and cons to the Collector’s edition:

• More information about each park compared to the classic edition
• Extra space for cancellation stamps in each region
• Dedicated area for each national park stamp
• Weather resistant cover makes it durable for travel
• Bigger and more bulky compared to the classic edition
• Only room for two stamps and sticker per national park
• Will eventually run out of room if planning to visit many parks
• Depending on time of publication, this edition may not be up to date

>> Buy the Collector’s edition here

3. Explorer Edition

The Explorer edition is best for those who plan to visit many national parks. We like this edition because it’s jammed packed with information about each park and allows for the most creative freedom.

This edition is different from the others because it’s a 3 ring binder making it very easy to add and arrange the pages anyway you want. There are also two mesh pockets in the front and back so you can keep your collectables safe.

• Dimensions : Binder with 3 rings about 11’’ x 8’’
• Price : $69.95

Here are a few pros and cons to the Explorer edition:

• Best for frequent travelers and road trippers
• Extremely durable due to the weatherproof portfolio
• Includes space for all 400+ national parks
• Extremely customizable
• Most expensive edition option
• Large size is bulky and not as travel friendly compared to other editions
• Will still need a few expander packs if visiting all 400+ parks
• Can be heavy if loaded with collectables and pages

>> Buy the Explorer edition here

4. Junior Ranger Edition

The Junior Ranger edition was specifically designed for kids so this passport book makes a great gift for any little explorer. It was designed in collaboration with the NPS and is filled with vibrant illustrations by Dave Klüg.

This edition includes a free set of stickers and the blank spaces are specially designed for Junior Ranger cancellation stamps which are earned after completing a park’s Junior Ranger program.

• Dimensions : 9’’ x 7’’
• Current Price : $14.95

Here are a few pros and cons to the Junior Ranger edition:

• Perfect for kids of all ages
• Incudes educational content created just for kids
• Passport is small and easy to transport
• Great way for kids to learn about US national parks
• Kids may outgrow this edition in time
• Does not have room for all 400+ parks
• Can be time consuming to collect with Junior Ranger programs
• Text may be difficult for younger children

>> Buy a Junior Ranger edition here

How To Buy A National Park Passport

National park passports can be purchased through America’s National Parks store online or onsite at most park bookstores. We recommend you purchase your passport book online in advance prior to your trip. If you wait to purchase your passport at a park, stock may be limited or sold out.

So in order to guarantee the edition you want, be sure to buy your passport ahead of time online. This way you can also familiarize yourself with the book before heading to any of the national parks. Use code ‘ WHEREARETHOSEMORGANS ‘ to receive 15% off your entire order!

If the visitor center was closed or you couldn’t access the stamp station during your visit, you can access blank cancellation stamps online at the NPS website so you never miss a stamp. All you need to do is locate the national park on the NPS website and head to the stamp page.

• Right click the blank image of the stamp
• Print the image from the webpage
• Add the date of your visit
• Cut out the stamp
• Tape it into your passport

Or if you forget your passport, the stamp station will have extra pieces of paper for you to stamp. You can then just tape this into your passport when you get home.

Travel Tip : Back in the day, you could mail a personal letter to specific national parks to receive a cancellation stamp from the day you visited. However, we do not know if this is still available so if you’ve recently been successful with this method, we’d love to hear about it in the comments!

What Else Can You Buy?

The verbiage can be confusing because stamps, stamp series and stickers are sometimes used interchangeably. So just to be clear, these are three different items you can collect with your passport. Here’s an explanation:

• Cancellation Stamps – These are the free stamps you receive at each visitor center and must be physically stamped into the blank sections of your passport.
• Stamp Series – Every year since 1986, a new series of passport stamp sets are released. This annual set includes 10 stamps with one national and nine regional locations all on one sheet (pictured above). Stamps sets usually run about $5.95.
• Single Stickers – These are individual self-adhesive stickers featuring a specific park with additional informational text that is not included in the passport or as part of the stamp sets. Stickers typically run about $3.99.

If you want to add more pages to your passport, here are the popular expander packs:

• Classic Expander Pack – 20 additional pages
• Collector’s Expander Pack – 20 additional pages
• Explorer Expander Packs – 36 additional pages

Or if you’re looking to purchase something for a specific national park, click here for a complete list of stores in alphabetical order.

READ: America the Beautiful Pass

The Morgan Conclusion

We started visiting the US National Parks in 2019 when Mark immigrated to America and didn’t know about the national parks passport system right away. But we started using the classic edition to collect stamps and stamp sets in our passport in 2021.

However, we’ve quickly outgrown this edition because we frequently visit the national parks. So we upgraded to the explorer edition at the end of 2022 and look forward to many more years of exploring our national parks.

The passport books range in price from $12.95 to $69.95 depending on the edition purchased. If you’re on a budget, consider the classic edition which costs $12.95. But if you plan to visit many national parks, the explorer edition is what you need which costs $69.95 and all proceeds go back into supporting the parks.

If you’re not sure which passport book to purchase, here are a few pros and cons to help you make a decision:

• Cancellations stamps are completely free to collect
• Passports are compact (or you can travel with just a few pages)
• Your purchase supports the US national parks
• Preserve memories with your loved ones by a chronological record
• A passport stamp cuts down on waste of trinket souvenirs
• Initial cost of passport
• You’ll have to remember it for each park you visit

Passport Stamping Tips

Last but not least, here are a few important tips to consider when collecting your stamps:

• Check the information before you stamp – Make sure you have the appropriate stamp and adjust the date as needed.
• Complete a test stamp – Before you add the stamp to your passport, utilize the stamp testing area to ensure the stamp and ink are working correctly.
• Larger parks have many stamps – If you’re visiting a larger park, do your research beforehand so you know exactly where to find all the stamp stations.
• Be respectful of others – There may be a small line while other people collect their stamps too. Be patient and take this time to compare stamps with others around you.
• Close the ink pad – This way the ink won’t dry out for others who visit after you.

More US National Park Guides

• 17 best things to do in Acadia National Park
• 32 amazing things to do in Badlands
• 12 things not to miss in Capitol Reef
• Best things to do at Grand Canyon South Rim
• How to spend 4 days in Yellowstone National Park
• An epic Grand Teton National Park itinerary
• The perfect Yosemite National Park itinerary
• One amazing day in Zion National Park

More National Park Hiking Guides

• 23 epic hikes in Mt Rainier
• 20 amazing hikes in Zion National Park
• 17 cool hikes at Grand Canyon South Rim
• 10 best hikes in Acadia National Park
• Unique hikes at Arches National Park
• Easy hikes in Badlands National Park

Want more National Park content? Head over to our US National Park Travel Guides to explore everything the parks have to offer.

We hope this guide featuring the National Parks Passport helps with planning your next adventure!

Please let us know if you have any questions about cancellation stamps or visiting the parks below in the comments and have a great trip.

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

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Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

4 thoughts on “Is The National Parks Passport Worth It?”

How do you get to the blank cancellation page for each park

Hi Lisa, you can purchase expander packs for the Classic, Collector’s or Explorer Passport. Depending on the pack you purchase, this will give you extra space for official cancellations, regional stamps and national stamps. Here are the current expander packs: https://bit.ly/3P67FLT

@Mark and Kristen Morgan, I mean how do you get blank cancellation stamps I went to each parks page and can’t find them. I just need the ones I went to before I got the passport book Thanks

Thanks for the clarification Lisa! If you visit the official NPS website for the park in question, you can sometimes find the blank cancellations. But it can be frustrating because they are not available for every park. We are hoping this changes with the NPS in the future. Here is an example of a printable cancellation for Bryce Canyon: https://www.nps.gov/thingstodo/get-a-passport-stamp.htm

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National Park Service 4+

The official app of 420+ parks, national park service, designed for ipad.

• #46 in Travel
• 4.1 • 718 Ratings

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Description.

The Official NPS App – Your Ultimate National Park Companion! • Explore 420+ national parks effortlessly with interactive maps, self-guided tours, and essential on-the-ground information. • Interactive Maps: Plan your trip with detailed park maps, including points of interest, trails, and essential information. • Park Tours: Discover park highlights with self-guided tours, just like having a ranger by your side. • Amenities: Find transportation, dining, restrooms, and more for a hassle-free visit. • Plan Your Visit: Access fee and pass information, operating hours, and other essential details to help you plan your visit. • Accessibility: Enjoy a fully accessible experience with audio descriptions for points of interest and exhibits, making it inclusive for all. • Offline Use: No internet? No worries! Download park content for offline exploration, perfect for remote areas. • Share Your Visit: Create virtual postcards to share your park experiences with friends and family. • Things to Do: Explore hiking, bus tours, museums, ranger programs, and more for a fun-filled visit. • News, Alerts & Events: Stay updated with park news and events. • Passport Stamps, Fees & More: Access park-specific details all in one place. Discover all 420+ National Park System sites, from iconic landmarks like Yellowstone and Yosemite to hidden gems. Download the official NPS App now for an unforgettable park adventure!

Version 1.19

- Pin Events: Now you can mark events and keep them on your home screen. - Better Search: It's now easier to find park info. - User Experience Updates: We've improved the user experience throughout the app. - Stability Fixes: Enjoy a more reliable app with fewer glitches. We always appreciate hearing from our users. Your feedback and requests are important to us, and we encourage you to leave a review.

Ratings and Reviews

718 Ratings

Useful app but info not available from other devices

The information on the NPS Park app is very helpful. It contains detailed information about the parks, history, access, parking, lodging, and other amenities. A few areas of improvement would be: 1. to be able to retrieve information saved on one device from another device For example, if you save all the parks that you have visited over the years onto one phone, you can’t retrieve it from a tablet or laptop. On top of which once you get a new phone there’s no way to transfer the information. You have to enter it all over again since there’s no way to retrieve that history. 2. The app has a lot of good information but is not the most intuitive to navigate. Frequently you are told where you can locate information, but there is no link provided to let you go to that page. 3. A note to the NPS developers. While there are buttons on each page that ask whether the page was helpful, there is no place to provide general feedback so that the end-user could provide suggestions.

Awesome start. Hoping for many more features.

Honestly this is one of my favorite apps. Even if I’m not traveling, I like to load the app and explore parks from afar. I love how much love and energy went into this app. It’s obvious that the content comes from people who love the parks as much as we do. Here’s what I’d love to see: Improve offline access: being able to save parks for offline use is awesome. However, the app spends a really long time trying to load when you don’t have internet access before finally giving an error message and then loading after a delay. I wish the app would start in offline mode (offline is default) and then access the internet once the app is loaded. Sort by ability or activity level: I wish I didn’t have to load every single item in a list to see if a trail or thing is ADA accessible. Maybe add an icon to the items on a list… or add a filter. Passport stamp locations: I love this feature. Can the items on this list be clickable? Take me to the entry for that visitors center, so I can find info on accessing it. More pictures: I’m disabled and physical access can be an issue. It’s so cool to be able to see places I’ll never be able to visit. Show me the super advanced hikes I’ll never get to. And show us more wildlife we might have trouble seeing on our visit! I’ve got a million suggestions but you all are busy people. Thanks for making a cool app. Looking forward to updates.

You fixed it!

After the latest update (1.16) the app was no longer opening! It kept crashing but looks like you fixed it! Thank you so very much! It’s a nice build now that’s it’s working again. For everyone out there who was having issues like me, this is what I did to make it work again. I had to completely delete the app and then reinstall it. Unfortunately I lost all my data in the process. That is a bummer and have to start logging all my stops again but it’s worth it. The version is very smooth and doesn’t freeze up anymore! It was worth it. This app is great and so are the people who work on it for us. Also, for those of you who wants your lists back, they are still there, under favorites you can make as many new lists as you like just like before. This app helps tremendously with all your NPS needs and planning. May I remind everyone also that’s it’s free! Safe travels everyone and happy exploring!

Developer Response ,

Thank you for the great review. We're happy you're enjoying visiting parks and using the app along the way. We appreciate the suggestion about map clustering and promise we'll take a fresh look at how the pins combine. We agree it's nice to see your accomplishments all at once.

App Privacy

The developer, National Park Service , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

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Passport Stamps of the World – The little book of memories

Passport stamps are some of the greatest souvenirs we get from our travels around the world.

They are so much more than blotches of ink on paper; they remind us of places we’ve been, triggering much-treasured memories of the things we saw, the people we met and the adventures we had along the way.

When we pick up an old passport from ten years earlier and flick through the pages, like an old scrapbook from childhood, the memories, and feelings we felt while we were there come flooding back, reminding us how lucky we have been and even re-igniting our passions and dreams. There’s even a flash of pride when we look at a stamp from a country that few people travel too. Check out these amazing passport stamps from all over the world. Do any of these hold any special memories for you? Maybe some of them are on your travel hit list?

Passport Stamps from Asia

Singapore passport stamp – The Bay Marina Sands

Did you know?

Singapore is among the 20 smallest countries in the world, with a total land area of only 682.7 square kilometers, and is also the most densely populated, kilometer with 6,430 people per kilometer!

The record for the biggest ever game of pass-the-parcel was set in Singapore on 28 February 1998. It involved 3,918 students removing 2,200 wrappers from a 1.5 x 1.5 x 0.5 m parcel.

India passport stamp and visa – The Taj Mahal

Chess (Shataranja or AshtaPada) was invented in India, and Martial Arts were first created in India, and later spread to Asia by Buddhist missionaries. India is the world’s largest democracy and has never invaded another country in over 1000 years!

 Vietnam Visa – A view of Halong Bay

An estimated ten million motor bikes travel on the roads of Vietnam every day, and you can still find the wreck of an American B52 Bomber in Hanoi’s West Lake.

The Philippines

 Philippines passport entry and exit stamps – Palawan

The Philippines is the 2nd largest archipelago in the world, made up of 7,107 individual islands. More interestingly, however, the world record for most women breastfeeding simultaneously was 3541, set in Manila, Philippines, on May 4, 2006. Go the Philippines!

Kuwait passport stamp – Kuwaiti man

The Falcon is the national bird of Kuwait, they are found everywhere. There is a picture of a falcon on the stamps and the currencies.

On the Kuwaiti flag, the green stripe represents the fertility of Arab nations and the black represents the defeat of enemies. The red stands for the blood of the defeated enemy, and white symbolizes honor and purity.

 Thailand visa and passport stamps – A monk in a river boat in Bangkok

Thailand is the only country in South East Asia which has never been colonized by Europeans, although they share a fondness of monarchies – Criticizing the monarchy here can result in a prison sentence!

The full spelling of the country’s capital, Bangkok, in Thai has 169 characters. Here it is – Krungthepmahanakhon Amonrattanakosin Mahintharayutthaya Mahadilokphop Noppharatratchathaniburirom Udomratchaniwetmahasathan Amonphimanawatansathit Sakkathattiyawitsanukamprasit

Cambodia visa and passport stamps – Ancient pre-Buddhist temples

The infamous tyrant leader Pol Pot was considered as the most notorious war criminals of modern times, killing over one and a half million people during his regime. There are still an estimated 4 million landmines littered across the country. On a more positive note, Cambodia is becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, bringing more jobs and opportunities into the country. Oil and natural gas have also been discovered there in recent years, but we have yet to see if that will be a good or a bad thing.

Sikkim – Northern India

Entry stamp to Sikkim, India – Gangtok, Sikkim

Located in Himalayan Mountains, Sikkim is the only state with Nepali majority. The word Sikkim itself means ‘new house’ in the local Limbu language. We’ve been here, and while it’s incredibly beautiful, there’s not much more to say about it!

Darjeeling – Northern India

 A passport stamp from Darjeeling – A  Nepali-Indian Buddhist monk

As well as being the most famous location in the world for growing British-style tea, it was also a favorite holiday destination for British colonialists to get away from the heat of lowland India.  An old steam train, which used to carry passengers and potatoes up and down the mountain, is still in operation for ‘joy rides’ around the mountain slopes.

The Maldives

Maldives passport stamps – Perfect clear blue water and a white-sand beach, fringed with palm trees.

There are around 1200 islands in Maldives, but about 800 of them are still uninhabited. Only 200 islands are populated, with 110 of those being home to (very expensive) island resorts. The Maldives is the lowest country in the world at 1.5 meters, so with rising sea levels, we may be saying goodbye to this desert island paradise.

Laos entry and exit stamps – Ancient Buddhist temple ruins

Laos has two national sports, Kataw, which is like volleyball with woven bamboo using feet instead of hands, and Rhinoceros-Beetle wrestling, where to Rhino-Beetles are provoked to fight to the death while spectators place bets! I love Laos!

Macau entry and exit stamps – The ruins of Saint Pauls

Despite being right next door to China, Macau has its dialect of Portuguese – “Macanese Portuguese” – as well as its variation of  “Patuá.” It’s also home to the largest casino in the world, the Venetian Macau.

Japan visa and stamp – Street stall in Tokyo

Japan suffers an incredible 1500 earthquakes every year! Also, dancing late at night was illegal up until 2015, which may be because they didn’t want to disturb the 50,000 members of their population who are over 100 years old!

Passport Stamps from E urope

England – united kingdom.

London immigration stamp – Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament

England is quite a small island, with no place in the country being more than 70 miles (113km) from the sea. It’s considered treason to stick a stamp to the letter with the queen’s head upside down, and the capital city of London has previously been called Londonium, Ludenwic, and Lunenburg!

Passport Stamps from  North America

Canada entry and exit stamps – Incredible scenery of the Canadian Rockies

The official head of state of Canada is still Queen Elizabeth II, whose face appears on all of the nation’s currency, although she has very little, if anything at all, to do with the actual running of the country or its government. Canada holds the record for the lowest ever recorded temperatures in North America, at a terrifying minus 63 degrees Celcius! The name Canada itself stems from an amusing error in understanding – When the French explorer Jacques Cartier visited the country and spoke with local indigenous people, they invited him to visit their village or ‘Kanata’ in their language. Cartier thought Kanata was the name of the country, so the entire country is called a village!

Passport Stamps from  South America

Lake titikaka – peru and bolivia.

Souvenir stamp from Lake Titikaka – A traditional grass house on a floating island

Lake Titikaka, located in Peru and Bolivia, is the highest navigable lake in the world and 3380 meters above sea level. Quite mysteriously,  although the lake is up to 380 meters deep, a temple-like structure has been discovered deep underwater but has yet to be fully explored.

Peru entry and exit stamps – A Quechua woman in traditional dress

The humble potato actually originates from Peru, with an incredible 3000 different varieties being grown in the country even today! Peru is the world’s largest consumer of Guinea Pigs, with about 65 million eaten every year. The ancient Incas believed them to have magic or spiritual powers and used them in ceremonies, sacrificing 1000 Guinea Pigs and 100 Llamas to the gods every July to protect their crops. I’ve eaten a Guinea Pig, and it’s surprisingly tasty!

Ecuador entry and exit stamps – Mitad del Mundo, Equator monument

One of Ecuador’s biggest exports is bananas, valued at $2 Trillion US every year, which is interesting as bananas are not native to the Americas, they’re from Africa! Ecuador was also the first country in the world to declare that nature should have constitutional rights, just as humans do, which is something that Bolivia has also decided to embrace.

Costa Rica passport stamp – Sunset from the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse places on the planet with over 130 species of fish, 1000 butterflies, 9000 plants, 220 reptiles, 20,000 species of spiders and 34,000 species of insects! Costa Rica dismantled its army in 1949 and had successfully held peaceful democracy ever since. However, it is very good friends with the USA and the majority of its police force, even traffic officers, carry loaded firearms at all times, so make of that what you will!

Colombia entry stamp – Cartagena

Colombia is situated within the Ring of Fire, an area, and a group of countries affected by volcanoes and earthquakes, but don’t let that put you off. Colombia is said to have the most desirable emeralds in the world, with the deepest and most brilliant color, and the country is responsible for about 60% of the world’s emerald trade.

Bolivia entry and exit stamps – Bolivian woman wearing traditional Aymara color and bowler hat.

Bolivia is home to the world’s largest deposit of salt – The Uyuni Salt flats contain over 60 million tons of salt. It might all be scooped up sooner than expected too, as vast deposits of Lithium have been discovered underneath it, prompting newfound interest in the country from battery-producing companies all over the world. There are still 36 native or indigenous cultures in Bolivia, with over 30 different spoken languages, some dating back as far as 5000 years ago.

Machu Picchu

Souvenir Machu Picchu stamp – A misty day at Machu Picchu

Although the American Explorer Hiram Bingham is still credited as the first foreigner to discover Machu Picchu, his claim has been highly contested, with evidence suggesting that a German engineer, Augusto Berns, might have been there 40 years earlier. It is forbidden to enter the site of Machu Picchu, which is considered sacred, in the traditional dress of another country!

A fairly boring entry and exit stamp – Not so boring Carnival dancers

Although Brazil is one of the most modernized countries in the world, there are still an estimated 70 uncontacted tribes in the Brazilian Amazon Rainforest. Let’s hope they stay that way. In the Southeast of the country, local fisherman and freshwater dolphins have learned to work together to catch fish, the dolphins help to trap the fish then signal to the fisherman when it’s the best time to drop their nets!

Nicaragua visa on arrival stamp  – Central plaza of Granada city

The largest natural lake in Central America is Lake Nicaragua, named after the indigenous Nicarao people and the Spanish word for water, agua. It is still the most important source of freshwater in the country, which is why so many people are a little worried about the Chinese proposals to build a canal through the middle of it, to rival the Panama Canal!

Chilean visa stamp – The ice fields of Chilean Patagonia

Chile is the longest country in the world at a huge 2,647 miles (4,620 km) and the Andes Mountains run the length of the entire country from North to South, including 2000 active volcanoes! Chile is home to the world’s smallest species of deer, called the Pudu, which is incredibly difficult to spot in the wild as they are classified as endangered on the verge of extinction.

Argentina entry and exit stamps – Tango, the national dance of Argentina

Tango, one of the world’s most famous, popular and difficult dances, was born in the brothels of Buenos Aires. Argentina is the only country in the world to celebrate Friend’s Day, or Dia del Amigo, which was founded by an Argentine scholar on the day that Apollo 11 landed on the moon.

Passport Stamps from  Africa

Mauritius entry and exit stamps – The reason we all want to go there!

The national bird of Mauritius, the Dodo, has been extinct since about the year 1660. Its demise is largely blamed on the explorers and settlers who came to the island, as it couldn’t fly and was unaccustomed to predators; it was the easiest source of food.

Passport Stamps from  Australia and Oceania 

Australia entry stamp – A real-life native Australian

The longest fence in the world can be found in Australia at 5614 km long, which was built to protect fertile land from predatory dingoes. Australia is so huge, its width is equal to the distance between London and Moscow and the country’s largest private property is bigger than the entire country of Belgium. Most of it is uninhabitable desert though, where people have to live underground just to survive, like after an apocalypse. Good beaches though.

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Written by Kach Umandap

Founder of Two Monkeys Travel Group. Since 2013, Kach has visited all the 7 continents (including Antarctica) and 151 countries using her Philippines Passport. In 2016, she bought a sailboat and went on sailing adventures with her two cats - Captain Ahab & Little Zissou in the Caribbean for 2 years. She now lives in Herceg Novi, Montenegro where she's enjoying her expat life and living on a gorgeous Stonehouse. She writes about her experiences traveling as a Filipina traveler with a PHL Passport. Also tips on backpacking trips, luxury hotel experiences, product reviews, sailing & adventure travel.

Theme Parks of Quintana Roo: Xcaret, Xel-Há, and Xplor

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