Passes
The Forest Service offers places for hiking, biking, skiing, nature viewing, scenic drives, and for gathering forest products such as mushrooms, firewood, and holiday trees. Many of the facilities and services associated with these opportunities are free (you may need to request a free permit).
However, some sites/activities require fees or special use permits, which help to maintain, manage, and improve recreation on the Custer Gallatin National Forest. If you plan to visit multiple national parks and other federal public lands that charge entrance or standard amenity (day use) fees, a federal interagency pass may be a good value for you.
Federal Interagency Pass
Interagency Recreation Passes cover recreation fees nationally, at federal recreation areas such as national forests and grasslands. They can also be used at national parks, wildlife refuges and other federal lands. They cover facility use and services at many day-use sites on US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management lands. Visit recreation passes to learn about the variety of pass options available. You can purchase passes at most National Forest offices, or online through the USGS Store (processing fees may apply).
Fee-Free Days
In 2025, the U.S. Forest Service is waiving fees at most day-use recreation sites on the following dates:
- January 20: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
- June 14: National Get Outdoors Day
- June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
- September 27: National Public Lands Day
- November 11: Veterans Day
On these fee-free days, standard amenity fees are waived at participating sites, which typically include picnic areas, developed trailheads, and visitor centers. However, fees for overnight camping, cabin rentals, and other specialized services may still apply. Additionally, participation by concession-operated sites can vary, so it’s advisable to check with the specific site before planning your visit.