Oregon — The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is accepting public comments through Jan. 15, 2026, on a broad package of proposed rule changes affecting campground reservations, special access passes, rate ranges and fee waivers.
The proposals, originally announced last month, are aimed at improving long-term financial stability for the state park system. OPRD projects an $8 million operational budget shortfall for the current biennium—down from an earlier $14 million estimate—due to increased costs, heavier visitation, and lower-than-expected Oregon Lottery revenue. The department does not receive general fund tax revenue, and current visitor fees do not cover operational expenses.
Public comments can be submitted online at the rulemaking page (https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/prp/pages/prp-division%2015.aspx), by mail to OPRD (attn: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301), or by email at OPRD.Publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov.
A virtual public hearing will be held at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 15, 2025, with registration available at: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_civm2LvcQx-R0ZKCwHCwww.
Most changes focus on maximizing campsite availability and reducing lost capacity from late cancellations and unused reservations. Under the proposed policy, no refunds would be issued on the day of arrival, no-show reservations would not be refunded, and refund amounts would depend on how long a reservation was held and how early it was canceled.
OPRD is also proposing adjustments to Special Access Passes (SAP) for veterans and foster families, limiting eligibility to Oregon residents and capping free overnight stays at 10 nights per year. The agency says this would reduce waived fees by about $2.2 million per biennium, a 46% decrease.
The plan also introduces expanded rate ranges, including day-use parking permits from $7–$25 daily and $30–$100 for a 12-month pass, $50–$200 for 24 month pass, with dynamic pricing allowed based on season, amenities and demand. Updated ranges for campsites, cabins, yurts and group facilities would enable similar demand-based adjustments.
According to OPRD, the overall goal is to stabilize revenue and maintain high-quality, well-maintained parks. After the comment period closes, the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission is expected to consider the finalized proposal in February 2026. If adopted, the new rules would take effect March 1, 2026.
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