National and State Park Insurance Requirements for Photographers and Videographers
Explore photography insurance and permit requirements for shooting in state and national parks in the United States. Ensure you’re covered and compliant before your next nature shoot!
What Insurance Do Photographers and Videographers Need to Shoot in State and National Parks?
Based on our research, photographer insurance and videographer insurance aren’t just nice-to-haves if you want to shoot in U.S. State and National parks — they are must haves.
Check out all the coverage types available to you, so you can get the shots you want with the peace of mind that your business and finances are protected.
Here are the coverage types you’re most likely to need and want:
- General Liability: Choose from event or year-round general liability coverage options and choose from base policy limits of $1 million or $2 million based on your needs or requirements.
- Camera and Gear Coverage: Add Camera and Equipment coverage to any annual policy with the coverage limits you feel most comfortable with to protect your gear (especially while outdoors)
- Failure to Deliver (aka Professional Liability): Make sure to choose an annual policy and add Failure to Deliver coverage to protect against claims if your memory card fails or you can’t deliver for another reason.
- Cyber Liability: Hackers can steal information from you or your clients at any time. Cyber Liability Insurance can help you cover damages and recover stolen information.
Full Frame Insurance (FFI) policies are geared to help you meet the requirements of venues just like these. Keep in mind as well that many of these locations will also require you to add them as additional insureds on your policy.
Insurance Requirements for State and National Parks in the USA
Alabama
Alabama, aka the Yellowhammer State, has plenty of state parks to behold, including the Gulf, Joe Wheeler, Oak Mountain, and more. You need to complete a registration form with the Alabama Film Office and send a certificate of liability insurance for commercial filming and photography.
Commercial photography and videography vary in Alabama’s national parks. For example, Little River Canyon requires a completed special use permit application, a $50 processing cost, and proof of general liability insurance.
- Freeze frame the white sandy beaches and blue waters.
- 20115 State Park Rd, Gulf Shores, AL 36542
- 4.7/5 stars on Google Reviews
- Photograph the 2,550-acre park on the shores of Wheeler Lake made for golfing.
- 4403 McLean Dr, Rogersville, AL 35652
- 4.6/5 stars on Google Reviews
- Cinematize this 11,861-acre state park is the largest in Alabama, filled wit theh Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge, the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, and so on.
- 200 Terrace Dr, Pelham, AL 35124
- 4.7/5 stars on Google Reviews
- Snaptshot foot trails stretching for more than 60 miles with wetlands, swamps, a hardwood forest, and more.
- 2680 Natchez Trace Parkway Tupelo, MS 38804 (Neighbors Alabama)
- No stars on Google
- Photoshoot the trail that commemorates the survival and journey of the Cherokee Native Americans to Oklahoma.
- 1100 Old Santa Fe Trail Santa Fe, NM 87505
- 4.6/5 stars on Google
Alaska
Nicknamed the Last Frontier, Alaska is home to many great trails and parks, including Caines Head, Kachemak Bay, Point Bridget, and more.
Alaska’s Department of Natural Resources Divisions of Parks and Outdoor Recreation require you to complete an application for a non-competitive commercial activities permit for filming and photography. Their insurance policy requires you to have general liability insurance with coverage no less than $100,000/$300,000 occurrence limit and aggregate.
For national parks, like Gates of the Arctic, the insurance requirement is general liability insurance with a minimum of $1 million aggregate. You must also add the U.S. Government National Park Service Fairbanks Administrative Center as an additional insured. You must also contact this park directly for a special use permit application.
- Photoshoot this 495,000-acre land full of lakes, an ocean shoreline, and giant glaciers and ice fields.
- 18620 Seward Hwy, Anchorage, AK 99516
- 4.8/5 stars on Google
- Half the size of Rhode Island, cinematize scenic park features like the Byers Lake Campground, Little Coal Creek Trailhead, cabins, and more.
- Trapper Creek, AK 99683
- 4.8/5 stars on Google
- Capture beautiful beam footage of mountains, glaciers, forests, and an ocean in this state park.
- Homer, AK 99603
- 4.7/5 stars on Google
- Visually, Glacier Bay has everything from glaciers and mountains to fjords and even a rainforest.
- Alaska
- 4.9/5 stars on Google
- Freeze frame the valleys, rivers, and caribou in this national park that encapsulates winter.
- Alaska
- 4.5/5 stars on Google
Arizona
Arizona, aka the Grand Canyon State, is known for the Grand Canyon and its extremely hot weather. Bring plenty of sunscreen when you visit these state and national parks. You must also complete a photography/filming permit application and have a Certificate of Insurance (COI) for $1 million in general liability coverage.
National parks vary in requirements. Saguaro National Park requires a completed special use permit application, a COI, detailed production schedule, relevant fees, and more.
- Cinematize one of the most popular fishing spots in Arizona with a crystal clear lake, mountains, wildflowers, cacti, and more.
- Alamo Rd, Wenden, AZ 85357
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Named by the Ireys Family after finding a dead horse, photoengrave the lake intended for kayaking and fishing.
- 675 Dead Horse Ranch Rd, Cottonwood, AZ 86326
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Originally the base for General George Crook’s U.S. army scouts in the 1870s and 1880s, photoshoot the park that’s a living time capsule for Arizona’s Indian Wars with original structures still standing.
- 125 E Hollamon St, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Freeze frame the beaches, nature trails, campsites, and home for numerous birds, lizards, and rabbits.
- 699 London Bridge Rd, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Standing on 11 tribal community homelands and encompassing 278 miles of the Colorado River, capture beautiful beam footage of this national park’s vistas and rims.
- Arizona
- 4.8/5 Stars on Google
Arkansas
Arkansas — aka the Land of Opportunity and the Natural State — is home to different state parks and national monuments for great photo opportunities. Commercial photography and filming vary in requirements across state and national parks.
However, the Arkansas Post requires a completed special use commercial filming and photography application, applicable fees, and proof of liability insurance.
- Photoengrave the Mississippi Delta and the Coastal Plains in one visit. Backpack or run along trails and bridges for photo-finish scenery.
- 50 State Park Road, Star City, AR 71667
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Photoshoot the eroded volcanic crater surface to behold multiple rocks, minerals, and gemstones. Rent or bring your own non-battery or motor-driven mining equipment for diamond digs.
- 209 State Park Rd, Murfreesboro, AR 71958
- 4.4/5 Stars on Google
- A state park since the 1930s, cinematixe this location’s rustic-style wood and stone frameworks.
- 11333 West Arkansas Hwy. 74, Winslow, AR 72774
- 4.8/5 Stars on Google
- Document this state park that once served as a Civil War occupancy for Confederate and Union troops in the 1800s and the courthouse-turned-museum.
- Newport, AR 72112
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Shoot the meeting place for numerous cultures. This national park symbolizes cooperation, conflict, diversity, and synthesis.
- 1741 Old Post Rd, Gillett, AR 72055
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
California
The Golden State is home to Hollywood, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and great state and national parks.
The California State Parks website offers guidelines on commercial filming and photography, including when to get a film permit from the California Film Commission and insurance requirements.
Requirements vary for commercial photography and filming in national parks and monuments. For example, the Redwood National and State Parks’ commercial photography guidelines says you need a COI with minimum $1 million and $3 million aggregate liability insurance.
- Ahjumawi is the Native American word for “Where the waters come together…” featuring Big Lake, Tule River, Ja-She Creek, Lava Creek, and Fall River. You can also shoot 20 miles of park trails and oak, pine, and juniper forests.
- McArthur, CA 96056
- 4.1/5 Stars on Google
- Photoshoot the park located where two tectonic plates clashed and inhabits whales, elk, trout, salmon, pelicans, and woodpeckers.
- 15336 US-101, Trinidad, CA 95570
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Freeze frame this park’s Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.
- 63025 CA-1, Big Sur, CA 93920
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Zoom in on desert cliffs, rock formations, mountains, and more in this state park.
- 37749 Abbott Dr, Cantil, CA 93519
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Cinematize rivers, the coastline, and redwoods that stand approximately 350 feet tall.
- California
- 4.9/5 Stars on Google
Colorado
Colorado — aka the Centennial State and home to the Mile High City — offers several picturesque state and national parks. Insurance and permit requirements vary by park.
However, Eldorado Canyon requires film/photography permits and you need a special use permit and COI for filming at the Colorado National Monument.
- Located in Boulder’s backyard, photoengrave this park’s sandstone cliffs, South Boulder Creek, and climbable golden walls.
- 9 Kneale Rd, Eldorado Springs, CO 80025
- 4.8/5 Stars on Google
- Freeze frame the 900-acre reservoir for boating, swimming, fishing, bird watching, and other activities.
- 135 Co Rd 28, Craig, CO 81625
- 4.4/5 Stars on Google
- Photoshoot wildlife and more. In September 2020, the International DarkSky Association dubbed this park a Certified DarkSky Place to combat light pollution.
- 26363 Co Rd 3, Orchard, CO 80649
- 4.2/5 Stars on Google
- Capture this 689-acre land, 228 acres of water, and separate wetlands and rivers.
- 3785 Weld County Road #24.5, Longmont, CO 80504
- 4.4/5 Stars on Google
- Photograph or film staggering monoliths, canyons, bighorn sheep, gliding eagles, and more.
- Grand Junction, CO 81507
- 4.9/5 Stars on Google
Connecticut
Connecticut — aka the Constitution State, the Nutmeg State, the Provisions State, and the Land of Steady Habits — is full of cinematic locations to film and capture great photos. All state parks need to complete a permit application for commercial filming and photographing.
You must have proof of insurance and name the State of Connecticut as an additional insured. National parks have varying requirements. However, Weir Farm National Historic Park requires a permit and proof of insurance with the United States of America as an additional insured.
- Capture beautiful beam footage of Hammonasset Beach, Connecticut’s largest shoreline for swimming, surfcasting, and other water activities.
- 1288 Boston Post Rd, Madison, CT 06443
- 4.5/5 Stars on Google
- Document numerous sand dunes, marshlands, wildlife, seashells, and more on Silver Sands.
- 1 Silver Sands Pkwy, Milford, CT 06460
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- This park is a distinct feature of Connecticut’s skyline. Photoengrave the 2-mile traprock mountaintops that resemble a large man in a resting position with distinct features (i.e., head, chin, knees, feet, and so on).
- 200 Mt Carmel Ave, Hamden, CT 06518
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Cinematize the museum and its historic gardens.
- 43 Chatfield St, Derby, CT 06418
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Home to impressionist artist J. Alden Weir, this 60-acre monument has woods, fields, and waterways that artists of any medium can enjoy.
- 735 Nod Hill Rd, Wilton, CT 06897
- 4.8/5 Stars on Google
Delaware
Delaware, aka the Blue Hen State, the First State, the Small Wonder, and the Diamond State, is full of photo-worthy state parks and national monuments. Delaware requires a commercial photography permit application, general liability insurance with $1,000,000 occurrence and $2,000,000 aggregate, and $150 fee in state parks.
National parks and monuments vary by site. Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area requires an application, proof of liability insurance, and a $75 processing fee.
- Woods, blue granite cliffs, the Blue Ball Barn, and the Can-Do Playground are just a few sites worth zooming your lenses on.
- 1914 W. Park Drive Wilmington, DE 19803
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Experience the Civil War with staff members dressed in traditional garments to understand life during this era. Photograph employees loading and firing the Columbiad cannon for an explosive reenactment.
- 2540 Colter Road Delaware City, DE 19706
- 4.5/5 Stars on Google
- Photoengrave bald eagles soaring through the air or passerby trains and ships while biking or walking along different trails, including Riverview.
- Exit 4-B/I-495 to Lighthouse Road in Wilmington, DE
- 4.4/5 Stars on Google
- Chambers House Nature Center
- 750 Thompson Station Road (Park Office) Newark, DE 19711
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Experience tranquility and picturesque landscapes with 40 miles of one of the longest rivers ever.
- 1978 River Road, Bushkill, PA 18324
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
Florida
The Sunshine State is a lavish destination for natives and visitors alike with palm trees and ocean views stretching from Duval County to Orlando and beyond. State and national parks also offer spectacular views to focus your lenses and shutter speeds on for an ideal photogenic experience.
You must complete an application for a commercial photography, videography, and cinematography permit for state parks and have proof of liability insurance.
National parks like the Everglades require a permit application, proof of liability insurance, and a $200 processing fee.
- Snapshot beaches, salt marshes, and coastal maritime forests. Walk the beach for seashells, shark teeth, and wildlife viewing.
- State Road A1A North Jacksonville FL 32226
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Kayak, camp, swim, fish, and more. Into birds? Document nature’s fine-featherd friends at the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail.
- A12301 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola FL 32507
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Capture the reenactment of Dade’s Battle of 1835 and visit the indoor lodge and outdoor pavilions for weddings, reunions, and other special occasions.
- 7200 Battlefield Parkway Bushnell FL 33513
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Capture beautiful beam footage of this 1.3-acre land of Civil War history and areas for picnicking, running, and walking.
- New Berlin Road Jacksonville, FL 32226
- 3.8/5 Stars on Google
- Photoengrave this national park’s rare and endangered species, including manatees, American crocodiles, and Florida panthers.
- Florida
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
Georgia
Georgia, aka the Peach State and the Empire State of the South, has captivating state and national parks worth documenting for photo albums and screens everywhere.
State parks require an application for commercial photography and filming, proof of liability insurance, a $200 processing fee when approved, and a location fee.
National parks and monuments vary in requirements. The Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area requires an application, proof of liability insurance, and a $220 processing fee.
- Capture scenic areas with a Civil War museum, group campsites, and amenities for horseback riding, fishing, boating, and so on.
- 456 Alexander Street NW Crawfordville, GA 30631
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Freeze frame this 9,000-plus-acre park that’s keen for hiking, swimming, picnicking, and more. You can also capture history in FDR’s Little White House.
- 2970 Georgia Highway 190 Pine Mountain, GA 31822
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Snapshot Clarks Hill Lake and sandy beaches that serve as a cool escape for visitors from Georgia’s summer heat.
- 2959 McCormick Highway, Lincolnton, GA 30817
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Document this 1,070-acre park that pumps 7 million gallons of crystal clear water every day. You can also see alligators, turtles, and other wildlife.
- 1053 Magnolia Springs Rd, Millen, GA 30442
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Photoengrave this area’s flowing water that’s perfect for fishing, hiking, animal viewing, and more.
- 1978 Island Ford Pkwy, Sandy Springs, GA 30350
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
Hawaii
Hawaii, aka Paradises, the Islands of Aloha, and the Aloha State, is the place people go when they want to get away from the hustles and bustles of life. From vast volcanoes to friendly island life, you’ll have plenty of sites to photograph and video for your next trip.
State parks require a completed application for standard or DLNR open/accessible site permits with location fees and proof of general and auto liability insurance.
For a national park like the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, you need to complete a special use permit application, pay a $150 processing fee, and have proof of liability insurance.
- Photoengrave seabird colonies off of this volcanic coastline.
- Hana, HI 96713
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Capture the site where the Kamehameha I conquered the Maui army in 1790.
- 54 S High St, Wailuku, HI 96793
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Document this monument’s 475-acre crater formed more than 300,000 years ago from an explosive eruption.
- Honolulu, HI 96815
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Zoom in on this park’s Kalalau Trail stretching over five valleys before getting to the cliffs of Kalalau Beach
- 6CC9+8R Wainiha, Hawaii, Kapaʻa, HI 96746
- 4.7/5 Stars on Google
- Freeze frame two of the world’s most active volcanoes — Kilauea and Mauna Loa — which stand at 13,680 feet above sea level.
- Hawaii
- 4.8/5 Stars on Google
Idaho
Idaho, aka the Gem State and home to Russet, aka Idaho, potatoes, is home to numerous photo-centric sites, including its state and national parks.
According to this guide, commercial photography and videography in Idaho’s state parks requires:
- A filming permit application
- $100 application fee,
A bond or damage deposit - Proof of liability insurance in an amount determined by the park’s director
For filming national parks and monuments, such as Yellowstone (which shares land with Wyoming and Montana), you must complete an application, pay a $350 processing charge, and show proof of liability insurance.
- Capture photos and videos of Bear Lake, which is 20 miles long and 8 miles wide. For its turquoise hue, Bear Lake is nicknamed the Caribbean of the Rockies.
- 25 East 300 North St. Charles, ID 83272
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Photograph the tallest, single-structured sand dunes in the country with peaks as high as 470 feet.
- 27608 Sand Dunes Rd Mountain Home, ID 83647
- 4.5/5 Stars on Google
- Film this state park’s rugged rock formations that attract rock climbers everywhere in photos and videos.
- 3035 S Elba-Almo Road (Hwy 77 Spur) Almo, ID 83312
- 4.8/5 Stars on Google
- Document this 4,000-acre park that was once a World War II naval training station.
- 13550 E. Hwy 54 Athol, ID 83801
- 4.6/5 Stars on Google
- Although the majority of this park lives in Wyoming, it shares land with Idaho and Montana. Snapshot the gushing glaciers, hot springs, and Old Faithful.
- 4.8/5 Stars on Google
Illinois
Illinois, aka the Land of Lincoln and the Prairie State, is where Abraham Lincoln resided until becoming the 16th President of the United States in 1861. It’s also home to the Windy City and the Chicago Bears football team.
State and national parks vary in size and form a rich tapestry of history. You must have proof of liability insurance that’s $1 million occurrence and $2 million aggregate, a completed activity permit application, and a completed filming/photography questionnaire to film in state parks.
National parks, like Lincoln’s Home National Historic Site, require a completed application, a $50 processing expense, and proof of general liability insurance.
- Get close-ups of the 1,1340-acre, 6-foot-deep lake for wildlife, plant growth, and bald eagle-watching.
- 647 N State HWY 100 Astoria, IL 61501
- 4.5/5 Google Stars
- Cinematize deer, groundhogs, quails, rabbits, and other wildlife in this vast, forested park.
- R.R. #2, Box 27 Oquawka, IL 61469
- 3.9/5 Stars on Google
- Jubilee College State Historic Site
- 13921 W. Route 150 Brimfield, IL 61517
- 4.5/5 Stars on Google
- Capture prairie grasses, wildflowers, and rail remnants along this trail on videos and snapshots.
- 311 E. Williams Wyoming, IL 61491
- 4.4/5 Stars on Google