State Parks Seeks Public Comments on Proposed Changes
Virtual hearing set for Dec. 15 as agency addresses projected $8 million operational shortfall
SALEM, Ore. — Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is inviting public feedback on a series of proposed changes to reservations, special access passes, fee ranges, and waiver policies as the agency works to address a projected $8 million budget shortfall for the current biennium.
Public comments are being accepted through 5 p.m. on Jan. 15, 2026, and can be submitted online, by mail, or by email. OPRD will also hold a virtual public hearing for testimony at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 15, 2025.
The proposed updates, first outlined in a press release last month, are aimed at improving long-term financial sustainability and increasing campsite availability for visitors. OPRD reports the projected deficit has already decreased from an initial $14 million estimate due to recent revenue-generating actions, including expanding the number of parks that charge for parking and adjusting overnight camping fees.
According to OPRD, the shortfall stems from rising operational costs, increased visitation, and a decline in Oregon Lottery revenue. Visitor fees do not fully cover operational expenses, and the state park system does not receive general fund tax dollars.
Proposed Changes to Reservation and Cancellation Policies
To reduce unused reservations and discourage no-shows, OPRD is proposing a new cancellation structure that incentivizes early changes. Key elements include:
No refunds on the day of arrival
No-show reservations will not be refunded
Refund amounts will vary based on how long a reservation has been held and how far in advance it is canceled
OPRD says these adjustments would help free up more campsites for visitors by reducing last-minute vacancies.
Changes to Special Access Passes
The proposal also modifies eligibility and usage for Special Access Passes (SAP), which currently provide free overnight stays and day-use parking for qualifying veterans and foster families.
Under the proposed rules:
Passholders must be Oregon residents
Waived overnight rental fees would be limited to 10 nights per year
Day-use parking permit fees would continue to be waived
Passholders must cancel unused reservations or risk losing benefit nights
OPRD estimates the updated SAP structure would reduce waived fees by roughly $2.2 million per biennium, a 46% decrease.
Updated Fee Ranges and Dynamic Pricing
The proposal introduces updated rate ranges for day-use parking permits, campsites, cabins, yurts, and group facilities. New ranges include:
Day-use parking: $7–$25 daily
12-month parking permits: $30–$100
24-month permits: $50–$200
OPRD also plans to continue expanding dynamic pricing, allowing rates to vary based on season, day of the week, demand, and available amenities. The agency says broader flexibility is necessary to maintain high-quality park services amid rising costs and inflation.
Once the public comment period closes, OPRD will incorporate feedback and present the proposed rule changes to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission in February 2026. If approved, the updated rules would take effect March 1, 2026.
Cover image: Oregon State Parks
