AUSTIN, Texas — It's about to cost a little more to be a Texas State Parks passholder.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) announced this week that the annual price for the Texas State Parks Pass will increase from $70 to $95 on Sept. 1. The pass gives holders and their guests unlimited free day-use access to all 88 Texas State Parks.
TPWD said this is only the second time the price of the pass has increased in 20 years.
Current passholders who have a pass expiring after Sept. 1 can renew early – up to 150 days prior to expiration – to get another year of pass benefits at the $70 price. Passes can be purchased online.
The price for the Youth Group Annual Pass (YGA), which allows free entry to state parks for nonprofit youth group members and a number of adult sponsors, is also going up, from $100 to $150. TPWD said YGA applications received in August but paid on Sept. 1 or after will pay the new price. If you have questions about an application's status, email Youth Group Annual Pass.
TPWD said the benefits of having a Texas State Parks Pass go beyond the price of admission. Passholders get a half-price discount for the second night of camping when they stay two or more consecutive nights in the same campsite or screened shelter. They also get 10% off most retail and rental items and park stores, special discounts for activities and events and a subscription to the State Parks Getaways e-newsletter.