Central Oregon’s outdoor recreation offers affordable option as travel and food prices soar

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Memorial Day weekend is often the unofficial kickoff to summer in Central Oregon, sending people to trails, rivers, and campgrounds. But this year, rising costs may be shaping how families choose to spend the holiday.

A recent Century Foundation analysis finding Memorial Day staples are up 13% on average. Travel prices, including gas and airfare, are also continuing to climb — airfare costs alone are up 31% since January.

For many locals and visitors, outdoor recreation may offer a more affordable way to enjoy the long weekend without a major expense. KTVZ’s Claire Elmer is looking at how people are spending this weekend in Central Oregon — and whether higher prices have changed any holiday plans. Tune in for her full report tonight on KTVZ News at 10:00p.m. on FOX and 11:00p.m. on NBC.