Doing Business With The Park

Historic Photo of the Northwest Trading Post

NPS / C. E. Westveer

Work With Us

Business Opportunities

Private businesses play an important role in helping the National Park Service carry out its mission by offering services to park visitors that are not provided directly by the government. By welcoming the private sector as a partner in providing services, we can ensure visitors have access to services they want and need and broaden the economic base of surrounding communities.

The National Park Service has developed two types of contracts based on the scale of the commercial activity:

• Commercial Use Authorizations (CUAs) permit commercial activities for up to two years that are appropriate, low-impact, and consistent with the purpose for which the Blue Ridge Parkway was established. CUAs are required of all operators who provide any goods, activities, services, agreements, or other function for park visitors. Many businesses operate on the parkway under CUAs to provide services like guided hiking tours, guided climbing tours, trailhead transportation, and campground firewood sales. Learn how to apply for a CUA.
• Concessions Contracts are longer-term contracts offering visitor services that usually take place solely within the park. Parkway concessioners include lodges, restaurants, craft shops, and boat rentals. Learn more about concession opportunities with the National Park Service.

Special Use Permits

A special park use is a short-term activity that takes place in a park area and typically provides a benefit to an individual, group, organization, or a First Amendment cause, rather than the public at large. The National Park Service may permit a special park use providing the activity will not cause derogation of the park's resources or values, visitor experiences, or the purpose for which the park was established. The parkway issues Special Use Permits for activities like weddings, group bike tours, filming, car cruises, and public assemblies. Learn more about Special Use Permits.