Texas State Parks Pass Details

image of state parks pass card

What do I get when I purchase a pass?

Free entry

You get free entry to state parks for one year. Some parks do not charge an entry fee. Activity and camping fees still apply.

  • This applies to you and your guests who are riding in the same noncommercial car or boat. The pass holder must be present and provide valid identification.
  • Having your physical card will significantly speed up the check-in process and is recommended. Pass information can be looked up by staff, if the pass holder's digital profile matches the pass holder's identification. You will need the number printed on your pass to use "iron ranger" stations or to check-in after hours.
  • Park capacity limits apply to pass holders. You are not guaranteed entry if the park has reached capacity.
  • If you enter the park by bicycle, motorcycle, or on foot, you can bring as many as 14 guests with you who are entering the same way.

Camping discounts

You pay half price for the second night, when you stay two or more consecutive nights in the same campsite or regular screen shelter. Abuse of pass discounts may result in revocation of pass and/or discount benefits.

  • Blackout dates apply, and are set by each park as needed.
  • The discounts are attached to your pass, and we will apply them when you pay camping fees.
  • Discounts can not be combined with other promotions or discounted rates.
  • The discounts expire when your pass expires; they cannot be transferred and have no cash value.

State park store discounts 

Your park pass gives you a 10 percent discount on most  retail and rental items in a Texas state park store. Show your pass at the register. Stores operated by partnership agreements may not honor this discount.

Additional benefits

  • Secondary pass:  You can buy a secondary pass for someone who lives with you for $25. See restrictions below.
  • Email updates: The State Parks Getaways e-newsletter and park email updates will help you plan your next trip and stay informed about the latest park news, activities, events and more.
  • Special discounts:  Many parks offer special discounts for programs, activities, and events.

What are the rules?

The pass does not have your name printed on it. Therefore, you must show identification when you use your card.

Having your physical card is recommended. However, pass information can be looked up by staff, if the pass holder's digital profile matches the pass holder's identification. Pictures of a pass will be verified against the digital profile and the customer's identification. The pass holder must always be present to use a pass.

The pass is not for commercial or business use.

A customer is limited to one active annual pass at a time.

Your card can be replaced (one time only) for a $10 fee.

You cannot give your pass to anyone else, and TPWD is not responsible for lost, misplaced or stolen passes.

All pass sales are final and there are no refunds or extensions for weather or park closures.

For a secondary pass:

  • The secondary pass holder must live at the same address as you, as verified with matching addresses on IDs.
  • You can only buy one secondary pass.
  • You can buy a secondary pass at any time that your pass is valid. However, it will expire when your primary pass expires.
  • The secondary pass has the same benefits as the main pass.
  • The secondary pass cannot be replaced if lost or stolen.

Buy a Texas State Park Pass at any state park. You can also order online or call (512) 389-8900 to purchase a pass (plus shipping and handling). You can only purchase a secondary pass in a park.

Can I give a pass to someone else?

The person who purchases a pass becomes the pass holder and can not transfer it to someone else. If you want to purchase a pass as a gift, purchase a state park gift card. The gift card recipient can exchange their gift card at anytime - this means they won't lose the time between the purchase date and their first use! Plus, just in case they already have a park pass, a gift card can also be used for other park fees, like campsites and park store merchandise.

Return to the TPWD Park Passes main page.