State Parks

Go Fourth

South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks, in partnership with the South Dakota Department of Health administer the Go Fourth program designed to introduce students to South Dakota’s incredible outdoor spaces while encouraging healthy, active lifestyles and a lifelong love of nature. All South Dakota fourth-grade students are eligible and receive their Go Fourth passes through their school. Go Fourth encourages students and their families to get outside, try new activities, and create healthy habits together.

Go Fourth Pass Benefits

Each eligible student receives a Go Fourth pass, which can be redeemed at South Dakota State Parks for their choice of three state park discounts:

  • A free daily park entrance license
  • Half off one annual park entrance license
  • A free 3-year subscription to Conservation Digest

Students also receive a coupon for a free 1-hour equipment rental, where available. The Go Fourth pass and equipment rental coupon are valid through December 31 of the issuing year.

sample Go Fourth pass

Receiving Your Pass

Go Fourth passes are distributed by between mid-March and the first week of May, either through the school office or during a classroom visit by Game, Fish and Parks staff. Any South Dakota student who is a fourth grader during the 2025–2026 school year is eligible for the 2026 Go Fourth program.

Homeschool families: Parents or guardians of homeschooled fourth-grade students should contact the state park administrative office at parkinfo@state.sd.us. Please include your student’s name and mailing address so eligibility can be confirmed.

Redeeming Your Pass

Go Fourth passes may be redeemed at any South Dakota State Park or Recreation Area. Please have your child’s completed pass accessible so staff can review the required information. Fourth grade student must be present when redeeming passes. 

Information for Schools

Go Fourth passes are mailed to schools mid-March each year. Schools are asked to distribute passes to all fourth-grade students upon receipt. Schools may also be contacted by Game, Fish and Parks staff who would be happy to deliver passes in person and provide a brief educational presentation or demonstration.

Bonus for Teachers

Teachers may receive a free copy of the GFP Conservation Digest for classroom use. To request a copy, email parkinfo@state.sd.us.

Planning a field trip? Entrance to South Dakota State Parks is free for school field trips, and park managers are happy to help with planning—contact your local park!