Local governments in Oregon have until November 17 to apply for Land and Water Conservation Fund grants that support park and outdoor recreation infrastructure projects.
According to an article by East Oregon, the fund, administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department and paid for by the National Park Service, provides grants to state, local, and tribal governments for acquiring land or improving public outdoor recreation areas.
Each year, about $4 million in grants are available, with past awards ranging from $200,000 for playground improvements in Grants Pass to $1.6 million for upgrades to the Smith Rock State Park welcome center.
Smith Rock State Park received its $1.6 million grant in 2023 to replace its current yurt welcome center with a new facility. Construction is expected to begin in late 2025 or early 2026.
Since 1964, the Land and Water Conservation Fund has invested more than $80 million in Oregon parks and recreational facilities.
The program continues to play a key role in expanding and maintaining access to outdoor recreation spaces across the state.
Grant applications and related materials are available on the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department website.
New applicants must request an account through the site before applying. Additional information, including the grant manual and program schedule, is available on the department’s Land and Water Conservation Fund webpage.
The program’s continued investment strengthens Oregon’s appeal to outdoor recreation enthusiasts, including RV travelers, campers, and adventure tourism operators who depend on high-quality public park infrastructure.