Deschutes County commissioners in Oregon are considering the possibility of applying for a state parks grant to fund the design and planning of a new campground and RV park north of Bend, according to a KTVZ NewsChannel 21 report. The planning and design phase of the campground and RV park is estimated by ECONorthwest to cost around $21 million.
This proposed development aims to address the significant demand for campsites in the area, which has seen minimal expansion in camping facilities. The project, situated on a 500-acre county-owned parcel currently hindered by private roads and barbed wire, aims to build 100 campsites, 10 miles of trails, and expansive play fields for children.
In Oregon, state parks offer a diverse array of outdoor and recreation activities, catering to nature enthusiasts of all kinds. From the rugged coastline of the Pacific Ocean to the serene landscapes of the high desert and the lush forests in between, parks provide a backdrop for countless adventures. Visitors can enjoy traditional activities such as hiking, biking, and camping in well-maintained campgrounds that offer both tent and RV accommodations.
The state’s Opportunity Grant Program, funded by recreational vehicle fees, offers financial assistance to Oregon counties for acquiring, developing, and planning campgrounds.
This pool of funding is possibly our best opportunity to move this concept, this proposal along, because we really do need to do a much more detailed dive into what it takes to develop this as a park and campground,” Commissioner Phil Chang said.
The feasibility of this campground was previously assessed in a study by ECONorthwest. The study’s follow-up discussions indicated a clear path forward with the current zoning, suggesting potential collaboration with the Bend Park and Rec District for funding or development.
“It really seems like in order to be successful with this project, we really need to work on the legislators to add the UGB on the north end to Bend, in order to bring all this property in,” Commissioner Patti Adair said.
This project seeks to meet the growing demand for camping facilities in the region, with plans for extensive amenities and recreational opportunities.
Oregon’s state parks boast opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on serene lakes and rivers, as well as surfing and beachcombing along the scenic coast.
For more information about outdoor activities in Oregon, click here.
I’m super pumped about the new 500-acre RV campground and park up in Bend. It’s gonna be a game-changer for outdoor lovers like us, with all those campsites and trails!