Grand Canyon National Park announced a proposal to increase frontcountry camping fees, marking the first adjustment in two decades. The proposed changes, set to take effect on April 1, 2025, aim to enhance visitor services and maintain park facilities.
Currently, campers at Mather, Desert View, and North Rim campgrounds are charged $18 per night for standard tent and RV sites. The proposed increase would raise this fee to $30 per night, with a 50% discount available for senior and access pass holders.
According to a press release, The proposed fee changes at Grand Canyon National Park would set the cost for standard tent and RV sites at $30 per night, with a discounted rate of $15 available for senior and access pass holders. Rates for equestrian, group, and walk-up sites are not included in this adjustment and will remain unchanged for the 2025 season, maintaining options for various visitor preferences.
Grand Canyon National Park operates under the Federal Lands and Recreation Enhancement Act, allowing the park to retain 80% of the recreation fees it collects. These funds are directed toward projects designed to enhance visitor experiences, improve services and facilities, and ensure safety measures are up to date.
The National Park Service is inviting public feedback on the proposed fee adjustments, encouraging visitors and stakeholders to share their input online through December 15. This consultation period allows for community engagement, ensuring the perspectives of park users are considered in shaping the final decision. Written comments can also be submitted to park officials by mail within the same timeframe.
In 2023, Grand Canyon National Park welcomed over 4.7 million visitors, whose expenditures in nearby communities reached $768 million. This level of economic activity supported approximately 10,100 jobs in the region and contributed a cumulative benefit of $1 billion to the local economy.
