(MT) — When you put up your tent next year, the cost is going right up with
it.

For the first time in 13 years, Oregon state park camping and day-use fees
will increase in 2010.

The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission made the fee hike official
Sept. 29. Day-use rates will increase Jan. 1, 2010, from $3 to $5 per carload
for a daily permit. On May 1, 2010, RV campsite rates will increase by $4 per
night, and tent site rates will climb by $3 per night.

“Visitor fees are a major source of funds for park operations,” said OPRD
Recreation Programs manager Richard Walkoski. “We’re no longer funded by
state taxes. In the 13 years since our last fee increase, costs to run parks
have increased steadily while the visitors’ share of park revenue has fallen
dramatically.”

State park operations are also funded by a share of Lottery profits dedicated
to state parks by Oregon voters in 1998, and a portion of the recreational
vehicle registration fee, according to Walkoski. Because both funding sources
have declined, the increased visitor fees are expected to keep the park
operations budget even with last year.

OPRD initially proposed increasing tent camping by $4, but reduced it by a
dollar following a lengthy public comment period.

The Oregon Legislature approved the increased state fees during the 2009
session.

There are two types of state park campgrounds: value and destination. Value
campgrounds are usually smaller, less well-known sites that charge less. The
new nightly rate for a full hookup (sewer, electricity and water) and electric
hookup (electricity and water only) campsites will be $20 for value parks and
$24 for destination parks starting May 1. Tent sites will rent for $17 or $19.

RV and tent campsites rates are discounted by $4 per night from Oct. 1 to
April 30 every year to promote fall, winter and spring camping.

Overnight cabin and yurt fees will also increase by $4 and $9, respectively,
making the new rates $39 for a basic cabin and $36 for a basic yurt.

All of the new rates are summarized online at:
www.oregonstateparks.org/rates.php?season=1.