Oregon Parks and Recreation (OPRD) is currently proposing significant changes to its fee structure for parking, campsites, and other facilities. If you ride or camp at Oregon State Parks, these changes will affect you.
OPRD is facing a multi-million-dollar budget shortfall caused by rising costs, increased visitation, and a decrease in Oregon Lottery funds for operations. To keep state parks in top condition, the agency is looking to adjust how fees and reservations are handled.
Your Opportunity to Comment
Public input is crucial. You have the opportunity to provide feedback on these proposed changes now through January 15, 2026.
There is an online public hearing scheduled for Monday, December 15th at 5:30 p.m.
What is Changing?
In a nutshell, OPRD is looking to:
- Change cancellation policies to incentivize early cancellations.
- Increase the range of fees they are authorized to charge.
- Implement dynamic pricing (charging more during peak demand and less during low demand).
Key Details & Questions Answered
The initial announcement from OPRD was broad, so Kim McCarrel (VP Public Lands) reached out to Katie Gauthier at OPRD for clarification. Here are the key takeaways from that discussion regarding the Division 15 rule changes:
1. Fee Ranges and Future Increases
OPRD sets fee “ranges.” The Director sets the specific fees within those approved ranges. While the public can comment on the ranges now, future price adjustments within those established ranges will be administrative and will not require a new public comment period.
2. How Dynamic Pricing Works
Similar to hotels and airlines, OPRD wants the flexibility to adjust rates based on season, day of the week, holidays, amenities, and demand. This is intended to manage high-demand periods and encourage usage during off-peak times.
3. Access for Lower-Income Residents
The Special Access Pass (SAP) program will continue. This provides free day-use parking and up to 10 nights of free camping per year for eligible Oregon residents, including foster families and veterans with service-connected disabilities.
4. New Refund Policy
To reduce no-shows and open up campsites for others, the new policy will phase refunds:
- 30 days prior: Larger refund.
- <3 days prior: Smaller refund.
- Day of arrival / No-shows: No refunds.
- The $8 reservation change fee remains non-refundable.
Make Your Voice Heard
Balancing financial sustainability with equitable access is a challenge. OPRD explicitly stated that they want to hear from us. Please take a moment to register for the hearing or submit your comments via the links above.
Kim McCarrel
VP Public Lands
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