Deciding that "entrance fees at Fort Laramie don't make sense any more," the superintendent for Fort Laramie National Historic Site in Wyoming has done away with them. So, too, has Fort Union National Monument in New Mexico.

At Fort Laramie, Superintendent Tom Baker made the announcement January 1, almost 28 years to the day when fee collection began at the ’Grand Old Fort.'

In addition, the America the Beautiful—National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands passes will no longer be sold at the park. These passes, of course, can still be purchased at most federal recreation sites that collect entrance fees or with a mail-in application.  

Shortly after his arrival at Fort Laramie in October, the new superintendent began reviewing operational efficiencies at the historic site. “One of the first things that caught my eye was the fee collection program,” said Superintendent Baker. “When I reviewed the numbers, I noticed trends clearly indicating that entrance fees at Fort Laramie don’t make sense anymore. After conducting a thorough cost-benefit analysis, we determined it is in the best interest of both the park and the public to eliminate our entrance fee.”

Superintendent Baker views the elimination of entrance fees at Fort Laramie NHS as a win-win.

“We will be able to free up staff time that has been spent performing fee collection duties, and redirect employees’ time and talents back to one of the core missions of the National Park Service—that of providing excellent visitor services. With the elimination of fees, we look forward to increased visits from our immediate neighbors, along with friends, relatives, and house guests," said the superintendent. "Outstanding visitor experiences are the No. 1 priority here at Fort Laramie!”

What about visitors who still wish to contribute directly to the preservation, restoration, and interpretation of the park?

“Not a problem!” said Superintendent Baker. “Fort Laramie National Historic Site has, and always will, welcome donations from park visitors, supporters, and advocates. We currently have one donation box in our visitor center, and will be installing an additional one near the parking area for those wishing to make contributions.”

At Fort Union, Superintendent Charles Strickfaden came to much the same conclusion about the benefits, or lack of them, tied to collecting entrance fees. 

“We are continually analyzing our operations to ensure these national treasures are fully protected and that we are also following best business practices,” said Superintendent Strickfaden. “After conducting a thorough cost-benefit analysis, we have determined it is in the best interest of both the park and to the public to eliminate our entrance fee.

“We appreciate the great support we have in our local communities and encourage visitors to join us for the many numerous special events that we have planned for 2015”, said the superintendent.