Oregon – Oregon State Parks visitors may soon have to budget a little more for day trips since parking rates at some sites are due to rise. The daily parking cost at 25 of the state’s parks will rise from $5 to $10 beginning January 2, 2025. Reflecting continuous attempts to manage growing maintenance and operation expenses, this change marks the first price rise in more than a decade and a half.
Annual and biennial licenses will still cost $30 for 12 months and $50 for 24 months accordingly, despite the rise in day-use parking fees. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is giving a $5 discount on the 12-month permit throughout December in an effort to lessen the impact for frequent park visitors.
Since Oregon has more than 250 state parks—the great majority of which do not charge a parking fee—only a small portion of the parks are impacted by the pricing adjustment. The maintenance and running of these natural jewels depend on the revenue gathered from the 25 parks with fees charged.
Historically, the OPRD has maintained its parks system using a combination of financing sources; major contributions come from special lottery revenues, recreational vehicle license plate fees, and visitor park fees. Notably, the department does not receive tax dollars, placing greater importance on generating sufficient revenue through park-related activities.
The cost rise was a component of a larger September announcement including increases in reservation and camping fees. OPRD officials say these changes are necessary to keep up with the growing costs of running state parks.
OPRD provides many special access passes with free camping and day-use parking permits to some groups so that access to nature stays reasonable. Oregon foster parents, guardians, and adoptive parents of Oregon foster children, U.S. veterans with service-connected disabilities, and active duty U.S. military members on official leave can all get these passes.
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OPRD also keeps its dedication to provide free entry to the parks on specified days. On the day following Thanksgiving, New Year’s Day, Oregon State Parks Day—which happens on the first Saturday in June and also includes free camping—parking fees are eliminated every year.
Read also: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to increase fees for the first time since 2017
The department is actively looking for more methods to lower cost barriers for guests as rates are likely to rise, therefore ensuring the required income to keep and improve the park features. Managing traffic is the aim is to guarantee that the parks stay viable and fun for all visitors.
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For anyone intending to visit any of the 25 fee-charging parks, the forthcoming adjustments serve as a reminder to perhaps give yearly passes some thought, especially in anticipation of the promotional discount in December. Whether one visits Oregon’s state parks once or several times a year, its natural beauty and peace keep them a great place for adventure and rest.
