Can I bring a GoPro on all rides?

No, you cannot bring a GoPro on all rides. In fact, most major amusement parks and theme parks have strict policies that specifically ban GoPro and other action cameras on rides due to safety concerns. While some parks are introducing new rules for head-mounted smart glasses, traditional handheld, chest-mounted, or wrist-mounted action cameras remain prohibited in nearly every major park worldwide.

Six Flags (US): GoPro, DJI Osmo, and other action cameras are banned on rides. Only glasses-based micro cameras (like Meta Glasses) secured with an approved strap are permitted.
Cedar Point (US): Same policy as Six Flags: GoPro and similar action cameras are not permitted on rides; glasses-based cameras with approved straps are the only recording devices allowed.
Disney World & Disneyland (US): GoPro is banned on most rides. Handheld and loose articles, including cameras, are not permitted. Some attractions may allow securely fastened chest mounts at cast member discretion.
Universal Studios (US): GoPro and other action cameras are not permitted on most rides due to strict loose-article policies. Selfie sticks are also banned on rides and in queues.
Thorpe Park (UK): GoPro, cameras, and all recording devices are not permitted on any rides. All loose items must be stored in lockers before boarding.
Kennywood (US): Recording on rides is strictly prohibited, including GoPro regardless of securing device. Glasses are subject to ride manufacturer requirements.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (US): GoPro and similar devices are not allowed on rides unless specifically approved and supervised by staff.

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Detailed Answer

Why Parks Ban GoPro on Rides

Theme parks restrict action cameras primarily for safety reasons. Loose items like cameras can become dangerous projectiles at high speeds, potentially injuring riders or causing damage. Even when secured with mounts, there is a risk of failure. Parks are also concerned about the potential for recording devices to interfere with ride operations or safety restraints. While GoPro is known for being compact and wearable, many parks do not differentiate between handheld and securely mounted cameras.

Major Theme Parks and Their Policies

Six Flags & Cedar Point

Six Flags and Cedar Point have both introduced a new filming policy for 2026. Under this policy, traditional action cameras including GoPro, DJI Osmo, and DJI Pocket are not permitted on rides. The only exception is for glasses-based micro cameras, such as Meta Glasses, that are secured to the head with an approved strap. This policy is now in effect at all Six Flags-owned parks.

Disney Parks

Walt Disney World and Disneyland have strict policies that generally prohibit GoPro and action cameras on most rides. Official property rules state that "camera equipment, other than still photography cameras, is not permitted on attractions." Cast members advise that securely fastened chest mounts may be allowed on some attractions, but it is at their discretion and depends on the specific ride vehicle and safety restraints. Rides like Space Mountain have updated signage stating that "hand-held or loose articles, including cell phones and cameras, are not permitted while riding."

Universal Studios

Universal Studios has a strict loose-article policy on rides. Handheld cameras, chest mounts, wrist straps, and GoPro handles are not permitted on most attractions without media approval. Selfie sticks are also banned on rides and in ride queues. Small, non-extending handles and gimbals may be allowed in the parks, but cannot be used on rides.

European Parks

Thorpe Park in the UK has a clear ban: guests are not permitted to use GoPro, cameras, Meta Glasses, mobile phones, or other recording devices to take photos or videos on any rides. All loose items must be stored in the lockers provided. This policy is consistent with many other European parks that prioritize safety over personal recording.

What You Can Do Instead

If you want to capture memories from a ride, the park likely offers official on-ride photos or videos for purchase. Many parks also have PhotoPass or similar services where professional photographers capture your experience. If you are a content creator, you may be able to get special media permission in advance, but this typically requires coordination with the park's marketing team and is not available to the general public.

Real Traveler Experiences

"I brought my GoPro to Universal and was stopped at the Hulk roller coaster. They told me to put it in a locker or leave it with a non-rider. Even my wrist strap wasn't allowed." Universal visitor, travel forum

"At Disney, I used a chest mount on some rides and it was fine. The cast members just checked to make sure it was secure. But on faster coasters, they told me it had to go in a locker." Disney visitor, planDisney

"Six Flags banned my GoPro this year. I had to leave it in a locker. They said the new policy only allows Meta glasses for recording." Six Flags visitor, travel review

Pro Tips

Always check the specific park's website for recording policies before you visit, as they can change.
If you want to record on rides, consider using a glasses-based camera like Meta Glasses if the park allows it.
For Disney parks, ask the cast member at the ride entrance if your specific mount is allowed. Policies vary by ride and are at the staff's discretion.
When in doubt, use the park's lockers to store your GoPro and enjoy the ride worry-free.
Remember that park policies are designed for safety—respecting them keeps you and other guests safe.

Sources

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