New Shenandoah Automated Entry Gates

By Matt Waurio

For those who often travel to Shenandoah National Park (SNP), keep an eye out for the new automated entry gates scheduled for installation at all four park entrances this fall.  Per the National Park Service website, the new stations are designed primarily for use when entrance stations are not staffed. This is a continuation of the SNP move to a cashless process in 2025 – with these automated gates now permitting the collection of additional funds after hours. 

Ever wonder where your entrance fees go? Well, SNP reports that 80% of the fees collected at entrance stations and campgrounds are returned to Shenandoah for projects to improve the visitor experience. That includes funds for road maintenance, signage, trail and campground improvements, repairs to historic structures, and other visitor services. 

The NPS hasn’t announced a specific installation schedule, so frequent visitors should watch the park website for updates. Remember that the park is now cashless so bring your credit or debit card with you for your next trip or purchase entry passes in advance through Recreation.gov.  For more on SNP fees and the automated entry stations, visit the  SNP Fees Webpage.

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