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Passes

Most National Forest System lands are open and free of charge for your use and enjoyment; however, user fees may be charged at some areas under the provisions of the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act.

On the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests, fees are charged at a handful of campsites, day-use areas, and pavilions. The fee can be paid one-time on site at the recreation area or, in some instances, online.

Day-use fees may also be covered with the purchase of an annual or lifetime “America the Beautiful” pass. An annual pass may be used multiple times, at multiple locations, all year round.

More information about America the Beautiful Passes can be found on the U.S. Geological Survey “Frequently Asked Questions” page.

Buy Passes in Person

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America the Beautiful passes can be purchased in person during regular business hours at the Hector Ranger Station in New York and the Rochester Ranger Station in Vermont. We recommend calling ahead to ensure the pass you need is in stock.

Hector Ranger Station (New York)

Rochester Ranger Station(Vermont)

Buy Passes Online

image of 6 types of America the Beautiful passes

Annual and lifetime America the Beautiful passes provide visitors an affordable and convenient way to access Federal recreational lands.

Learn more about the different passes or purchase your pass on Recreation.gov

Recreation.gov Mobile App

Recreation.gov Logo

Download the Recreation.gov mobile app to Scan & Pay your day use fee on-site! Even in remote areas with no cell service, Scan & Pay allows you to pay when you’re offline and then processes your transaction once you’re back online.

Get the App

Camping & Cabins

A gravel road runs through a green forest, forking off the road to the right sits an empty gravel campsite and picnic table.

The Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests offer a variety of camping experiences and facilities that provide varying levels of user comfort and convenience. Most sites are first-come, first-served, although there are several reservable camp sites available during the summer recreation season.

Learn more about Camping & Cabins on the Green Mountain and Finger Lakes.

Fee Sites

Last updated February 13, 2026