The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is seeking public input on a proposal to adjust camping and facility rate ranges in state parks starting summer 2025. This adjustment is necessary to address rising utility costs, operations and maintenance needs, and inflation. Currently, the rate range for tent campsites is $17 to $22 per night, plus any local lodging taxes. The proposal would increase the top end of this range to $29 per night before taxes.
It’s important to note that increasing the rate ranges doesn’t automatically mean current fees will rise. Instead, these ranges provide flexibility to adjust fees over time as needed, avoiding sudden large increases. According to KTVZ News, once rate ranges are adopted into rule, the state parks director can adjust fees up to four times per year based on visitation patterns, increased costs, and seasonal fluctuations.
This structured approach to managing camping fees has been in place since 2019 when the first rate ranges were adopted into rule in 2018. It allows the department to respond to changing economic conditions and visitor demands. The Statesman Journal reported in 2019 that record-breaking attendance at Oregon state parks led to plans for increasing camping rates at popular parks.
The proposed rules also include expanding the 25% surcharge for out-of-state RV campers to all site types for out-of-state campers, potentially generating additional revenue for the park system. KLCC in 2021 reported on the implementation of this surcharge for out-of-state RVers in Oregon state parks, highlighting its potential to boost park revenue.
Additionally, the proposed rules would allow the director to determine which parks assess a day-use parking permit fee, providing more flexibility in managing park resources and responding to visitor patterns. Currently, parks requiring a parking permit are listed in rule.
Public comments on the proposed rule change will be accepted through 5 p.m. August 30, 2024, and can be submitted online, by mail, or by email. The department has provided multiple channels for public input, recognizing the importance of community engagement in the decision-making process.
Three public hearings are scheduled for the public to provide comments, including a virtual hearing on July 31 and two in-person hearings in August. These hearings offer opportunities for direct engagement between the public and OPRD officials. The department is also seeking feedback via a short survey about opinions on camping facilities and programs during the public comment period.
The economic impact of these changes extends beyond the parks themselves. Travel Oregon’s economic impact study highlights the significant contributions of outdoor recreation to Oregon’s economy, including job creation and spending. Changes in park fees and policies can affect local economies that benefit from park visitors.
Maintenance and utility costs are key factors driving the need for rate adjustments. The 2022 Annual Performance Progress Report from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department provides insights into the agency’s performance metrics related to maintenance and best practices, underscoring the ongoing need for resources to maintain park infrastructure.
After the public comment period ends, the proposal with any incorporated updates will go to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission in September or November for possible adoption. Any changes in rate ranges would not be effective until the agency budget is approved by the Oregon legislature and signed by the Governor in 2025.
As Oregon’s state parks continue to evolve, public engagement remains crucial in the decision-making process. The proposed rate range adjustments aim to balance maintaining park quality and accessibility while ensuring the long-term sustainability of these valuable public resources.
