Facing a projected 14% budget shortfall in the upcoming biennium, Oregon State Parks is actively pursuing new business partnerships to generate revenue and avoid deep operational cuts, including potential park closures by 2027.
The agency, which relies primarily on camping fees, state lottery allocations, and concession revenue, says it must diversify income streams to maintain service levels and infrastructure.
To close the funding gap, the department is considering expanding its concessions program. Ideas range from outdoor activities such as zip-lining and tree climbing to adaptive lodging experiences.
Director Lisa Sumption said the agency is open to proposals that provide memorable experiences while maintaining the parks’ integrity.
“It could be zip-lining. It could be rope climbing,” Sumption said, as reported by OPB on July 17. “People want very unusual, unique stays.”
Tree Climbing at Silver Falls is one such example. Operated by Leo Fischer, the business offers guided climbs up 500-year-old redwoods at Silver Falls State Park.
“Our most popular tour is the half-day old-growth tree-climbing experience,” Fischer said. Participants receive training and equipment before ascending nearly 200 feet into the canopy.
Fischer pays the state 5% of his gross revenue, about $3,000 per quarter, in exchange for use of park space and facilities.
While not a large sum, Fischer believes the model could scale. “It’s something, right?” he said. “And if I’m just one of many, it really adds up.”
Sumption pointed to Fort Stevens State Park as a case study in cost challenges. The park features dozens of historic buildings and infrastructure to support roughly 5,000 campers.
“We do all of the power. All of the water. All of the sewer. All the enforcement,” she said. “We’re like a little city within a city.”
Maintaining aging infrastructure and addressing rising operational costs, including high visitor use—54 million people visited Oregon parks last year—has strained the system.
One solution being considered is reusing historic structures, like Fort Stevens’ old guard house, for overnight stays or themed restaurants.
Still, working with the state presents hurdles for potential partners. Fischer noted that environmental reviews and permit approvals can take years.
“The first time we got permits here, to work at this park, it almost took three years,” he said. However, he emphasized that low startup costs and access to public land make such ventures attractive. “It’s not like buying a building to start a restaurant.”
To make partnering easier, the agency was recently exempted from some state procurement processes. “It certainly is going to make it a lot easier,” Sumption said.
But expansion of commercial activities has prompted debate. Chris Gilland, manager of Silver Falls State Park, stressed that natural beauty should remain the primary attraction.
“All of the companies. All of the food. That’s bonus. That’s extra,” he said. “And once that line gets crossed… I think that’s the line we don’t want to cross.”