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Here's how you can visit Nevada state parks for free this year

Henderson Libraries
Henderson Libraries
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Otherworldly rock formations, a hidden canyon lake, fossils and more can be found throughout Nevada's 27 state parks, and this year, you can visit them for free.

Public libraries throughout Nevada partnered with the state to allow library card-holding adventurers access to a Library Park Pass, which when checked out from the library allows free entry to all of the Nevada state parks.

The passes can be checked out for a week. They cover the day-use entrance fee for one passenger vehicle with a capacity of eight people or fewer.

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You can reserve passes here and find a full list of state parks here.

The state also provided some frequently asked questions:

Where is the pass valid?
Nevada's Library Parks Pass is valid at all 27 Nevada State Parks. The pass does NOT include federal, regional, or other public lands in Nevada that are not part the Nevada State Park system.

Does the pass cover camping or boating fees?
No. The pass covers the day-use entrance fees for one passenger vehicle with a capacity of eight people or less. Fees will be assessed for additional recreational activities, special programs or services.

Does the pass cover museum fees at state parks?
Yes. Parks like Mormon Station, Buckland Station and Old Las Vegas Mormon Fort, where a museum fee is charged for entrance, will be eligible for access with a library park pass.

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Does the pass cover special events or programs?
There is no additional charge to Library Park Pass holders if a special event or program is offered at no additional charge to the entrance fee. If the special event or program has a cost in addition to the entrance fee, then the Library Pass holder is responsible for that additional cost.

If I check out this pass from the library, am I guaranteed entrance at any park?
No, pass holders are not given priority for entering Nevada State Parks and admittance is subject to available space.

Are there limitations on the number of people allowed in each vehicle for the pass?
The pass covers a maximum of 8 people per vehicle.

Where can I check out a Library Park Pass?
The passes are available at all participating Nevada public libraries. Reach out to your local library to see if they are participating this year. View a list of public libraries in Nevada.

How do I check out or return the pass?
Contact your nearest public library for their specific check out and return procedures.

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What if the pass is lost or stolen?
Please contact the library where you borrowed the pass. You may be subject to library fines for the cost of a replacement pass. Libraries should contact the Nevada State Parks Library Park Pass Program Coordinator to replace lost or stolen passes.

How is this program funded?
This program is currently funded by the Nevada State Parks Gift Shop Grant Program, which allocates the proceeds from all Nevada State Parks Gift Shop sales to educational and interpretive programs in Nevada's State Parks.

What is the goal of the program?
To make Nevada's State Parks as accessible as possible by providing an opportunity for all populations to access and experience a state park at no cost.

When was this program initiated?
The pilot program launched in January of 2023.

How can I support the program?
Those who purchase gift shop items will be supporting programs like this, as well as other interpretive and educational programs held at Nevada State Parks.

Who can I contact with questions about the program?
Please reach out to the Nevada State Parks Headquarters to speak with the program coordinator at 775-684-2770 or at stparks@parks.nv.gov.

Kristen DeSilva (she/her) is the audience engagement specialist for Nevada Public Radio. She curates and creates content for knpr.org, our weekly newsletter and social media for Nevada Public Radio and Desert Companion.