More questions about my route and National Parks

Question

Apologies for my ignorance on this matter. I understand that some of the National Parks have restricted numbers and you need to book in advance and most National Parks you need to pay to drive through and if going through a few it might be advantageous to get a pass to cover several parks? I am just not sure on my route what/how many NP's I am going through? Whether there is any possibility I cant drive through them and whether I would be better to get a pass to cover several parks. So my route is

Las Vegas>Willow Beach>Kingman>Somewhere near Mather Point>Sedona/Oak Tree Canyon> Tucson>Van Horn> Fredericksburg (Texas)

Thank you again - not sure what I would do without this Forum

Answer

Your planned route from Las Vegas through Arizona and into Texas passes near several National Parks and recreation areas, so understanding the entrance fees, reservations, and passes can help make your trip smoother.

National Parks and Access on Your Route:

Grand Canyon National Park (near Mather Point): This is the main park along your route in northern Arizona. Driving into the park is straightforward, but some areas may require reservations if you want to park at popular viewpoints or access certain shuttle routes. The South Rim is open year-round.
Other Arizona Parks: Oak Creek Canyon near Sedona is part of Coconino National Forest, not a National Park, so there is no entrance fee but there may be parking fees at trailheads.
Tucson area: You will be near Saguaro National Park. This park has two districts (East and West) with self-pay entrance stations. No advance reservations are typically required for driving through, though timed entry tickets may be required for special hikes or events.
Willow Beach / Kingman: Willow Beach is managed by the Bureau of Reclamation and is accessible without special permits. Kingman is a regular town, not a park.

National Park Pass:

If you plan to enter multiple National Parks, purchasing the America the Beautiful Annual Pass is cost-effective. It covers entrance fees at all U.S. National Parks and many federal recreation sites for one vehicle and all passengers. Individual entrance fees are usually around $30 per car for major parks, so a $80 annual pass pays off quickly if you enter three or more sites.

Grand Canyon South Rim: $35 per car, valid 7 days
Saguaro National Park: $30 per car, valid 7 days
Other smaller sites along the way may or may not be covered; check the America the Beautiful pass site.

Recommendations for Your Route:

Buy an America the Beautiful Pass before entering your first park—it will simplify stops and may save money.
For Grand Canyon viewpoints like Mather Point, plan to arrive early to secure parking, especially in peak months.
Oak Creek Canyon and Sedona scenic drives do not require passes but some trail parking may have fees.
Saguaro National Park is flexible; both districts can be explored with self-guided drives. Check visitor center hours.

Most National Parks do not require reservations for driving through, only for lodging, shuttle rides, or some high-demand areas. Your route should be fine without reservations if you are just driving and stopping at overlooks or short hikes, but always check the National Park Service website for alerts or temporary restrictions on each park before your trip.