Oregon State Parks is set to implement a series of fee increases and introduce new charges at several popular day-use locations starting October 1, 2025, in response to a significant budget shortfall. The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is taking these measures to address a projected 14% budget deficit, driven by rising operational costs, unprecedented visitation levels, and a decrease in lottery funds allocated for park operations.
Addressing the Financial Gap
The Oregon State Parks system, which does not receive general fund tax dollars for its operations, relies heavily on lottery funds, recreational vehicle license plate fees, and visitor fees. Lottery funds account for just under half of the department’s budget, with RV fees contributing 15% and visitor fees making up 35%. However, escalating costs for utilities, maintenance, and managing increased visitor traffic have outpaced revenue. OPRD cites utility costs alone have risen 28% over the last four years, and the system faces a substantial $350 million maintenance backlog, with a third of restroom facilities being over 50 years old. This financial strain has prompted the department to revise its fee structure to ensure the long-term sustainability and accessibility of its more than 250 parks.
OPRD Director Lisa Sumption emphasized the necessity of these adjustments, stating, “State parks are some of the most beloved spaces in Oregon, but we have struggled as a state to sustainably fund them. We’re working to reimagine the future of Oregon State Parks as a financially resilient system that will serve generations to come.” The fee changes are designed to maintain current service levels and continue to provide opportunities for visitors to explore and enjoy the state’s natural beauty.
Expanded Day-Use Parking Fees
Beginning October 1, 2025, an additional 21 day-use parks will require a parking permit, increasing the total number of parks with day-use fees to 46. Previously, parking fees were waived at over 225 parks statewide. The new daily parking permit fee will be $10 for in-state visitors and $12 for out-of-state visitors. These fees will not apply to visitors who access parks by walking, biking, or using public transportation, nor to those holding a valid camping hangtag or a 12- or 24-month parking permit. Among the parks now requiring a day-use fee are popular destinations such as Beverly Beach State Park, Crown Point State Scenic Corridor, and Harris Beach State Recreation Site, which saw an estimated 2 million day-use visits in 2024 alone.
Increased Overnight Camping Rates
For campers, overnight rates at 29 of the busiest parks will see an increase starting May 1, 2025. Tent sites will now cost $29 per night, and RV hook-ups will be $52 per night. These higher rates will apply year-round on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and daily during the peak season from May 1 through September 30. Additionally, prices for cabins and yurts will rise to their peak rates across all parks, ranging from $72 for rustic yurts to $129 for deluxe accommodations.
Other fee adjustments include an increase in boat moorage fees from $15 to $20 per night and a rise in overnight parking, overflow camping, and primitive camping fees from approximately $10 to at least $15 per night. The 25% out-of-state surcharge previously applied only to RV campsites will be extended to all site types for out-of-state campers starting July 1, 2025. The online reservation fee also increased from $8 to $10 on January 1, 2025.
Looking Ahead
These fee adjustments are part of a broader strategy by OPRD to enhance the financial resilience of the park system. Alongside exploring new public-private partnerships and concessions, the department is also seeking public input through surveys to help shape future priorities. Without these changes, OPRD has warned of potential consequences such as canceled park expansions, staff reductions, or even park closures by 2027. The department aims to balance the need for revenue with its commitment to preserving Oregon’s cherished natural and cultural resources for all to enjoy.
