Oregon Parks and Recreation seeks public comment for camping rate range increases

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is considering rate range increases for camping and facility fees for the public and is seeking comment on the proposed changes.

The rate increases are necessary due to increased utility costs, operations, maintenance needs and inflation, OPRD said in a news release. The rate range increases would not increase fees automatically. The range gives flexibility to adjust the fees within the range over time and avoids large increases all at once, OPRD said.

Examples for the proposed rate range changes include:

A full hook-up campsite with a current rate of $33 and rate range of $26 to $40 would see a proposed rate range increase of $33 to $52 for Oregonians and a range of $41.25 to $65 for out-of-state visitors.

A rustic cabin with a current rate of $52 and a rate range of $42 to $62 would see a proposed rate range increase of $52 to $81 for Oregonians and a range of $65 to $101.25 for out-of-state visitors.

An RV with a current rate of $120 and range of $100 to $120 would see a proposed rate range increase of $120 to $200 for Oregonians and $150 to $250 for out-of-state visitors.

The full list of proposed rate range changes can be found at bit.ly/3Sw0Uph.

How to comment on proposed Oregon Parks and Recreation Department rate changes

The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department said it would accept comments on the proposed changes through 5 p.m. Aug. 30.

Comments can be submitted by email, mail, online or during three public hearings.

Online: bit.ly/4cE5z0k

Mail: OPRD Department, attn: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suit C, Salem, OR., 97301

Email: OPRD.Publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov

A virtual hearing is planned for 5:30 p.m. July 31. Register at this link: bit.ly/3S7TOGZ.

In-person hearings are set for the following dates:

• 5:30 p.m., Aug. 6: Nehalem Bay State Park Meeting Hall, 34600 Garey St., Nehalem
• 5:30 p.m., Aug. 13: North Mall Office Building, 725 Summer St. NE, Salem. Must arrive by 6 p.m. to testify.

After the public comment period ends, the proposal, with any updates, is slated to go to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission in September or November. Changes in rate ranges would not be effective until the budget is approved by the Oregon Legislature and signed by the governor in 2025.

Emma Logan is an outdoors journalism intern for the Statesman Journal. She can be reached at elogan@salem.gannett.com or on X @emmmalogan