The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) has announced an increase in camping, parking, and reservation fees to offset escalating operational costs. The adjustments, which range from $2 to $5 depending on the specific fee, reflect the department’s efforts to keep pace with rising expenses, including a notable 28% increase in utility costs over the last four years.
The decision comes amid record visitation to Oregon’s state parks, where the demand for services has surged alongside inflationary pressures. OPRD emphasizes that while operational costs have risen significantly, many fees have remained unchanged for years. “Depending on the fee, the last increase was anywhere from seven to 15 years ago for base fees,” the department stated.
The new fee structure will take effect on October 15, 2024, with all reservations made for 2025 stays reflecting the updated rates. The increases will be as follows:
– **$2 increase** for miscellaneous sites, including teepees, meeting halls, and other facilities.
– **$3 increase** for tent sites, encompassing horse tent sites, group tents, and primitive sites.
– **$4 increase** for RV sites, which includes full hookup, electrical, horse RV, and group RV sites.
– **$5 increase** for cabins and yurts, covering rustic, mini, totem, and deluxe sites.
In addition to the fee increases, OPRD plans to open public comments next month on a proposal that would give the department’s director greater flexibility in establishing day-use parking fees at state parks. Under this proposal, all state parks would require day-use parking permits unless stated otherwise, with the director having the authority to waive the requirement when necessary. OPRD reassured the public that there are no immediate plans to implement charges at all parks and that any changes would be considered carefully.
It is important to note that OPRD does not receive funding from taxes; instead, its budget is supported by a mix of funding sources: approximately half from constitutionally dedicated lottery funds, about 15% from recreational vehicle license plate fees, and roughly 35% from park fees paid by visitors.
