SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) — The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is inviting public feedback on proposed adjustments to camping and facility rates in state parks, scheduled to take effect in summer 2025.
These adjustments are aimed at accommodating rising utility costs, operational needs, and inflationary pressures. Currently, the rate range for tent campsites varies from $17 to $22 per night (excluding local lodging taxes). Under the proposal, the upper limit of this range could increase to $29 per night before taxes. Detailed proposed rates can be viewed here.
It’s important to note that adjusting rate ranges does not automatically translate to an immediate increase in nightly fees. Instead, it provides flexibility to make gradual adjustments within the specified range over time, mitigating the impact of sudden large increases.
Once these rate ranges are formally adopted, the state parks director will have the authority to make fee adjustments up to four times per year, based on factors such as visitation patterns, cost fluctuations, and seasonal demands. This approach, first introduced in 2018 and implemented in 2019, aims to ensure fees remain responsive to operational needs and visitor trends.
Alongside rate adjustments, the proposed rules include expanding a 25% surcharge for out-of-state RV campers to encompass all site types for out-of-state visitors. Additionally, the director will have discretion to determine which parks require a day-use parking permit fee, a departure from the current rule listing specific parks.
Public input on these proposed changes will be accepted until 5 p.m. on August 30, 2024. Comments can be submitted via:
- Online form: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department Website
- Mail: OPRD Department, attn: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301
- Email: [email protected]
The department will hold three public hearings to gather feedback:
Virtual Hearing: Wednesday, July 31, 5:30 PM. Registration is required here.
In Person Hearings:
- Tuesday, August 6, 5:30 p.m., Nehalem Bay State Park Meeting Hall, 34600 Garey St, Nehalem, OR 97131
- Tuesday, August 13, 5:30 p.m., North Mall Office Building, 725 Summer Street NE, Salem, OR 97301. Testimony begins at 6 p.m.
Additionally, the department invites feedback through a brief survey on camping facilities and programs, available during the public comment period here.
Following the conclusion of the public comment period, the proposal, with any incorporated updates, is expected to undergo review by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission between September and November for potential adoption. Final adjustments to rate ranges will be contingent upon approval of the agency’s budget by the Oregon legislature and subsequent signing by the Governor in 2025.