Flexible rates proposed for Oregon park campsites

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department said Wednesday it is seeking public comment on proposed rules that would allow the agency to implement flexible rates for state park campsites. The proposed rule would allow OPRD to vary campsite rates within a set range.

Under the rule, OPRD could charge a slightly higher rate at high-demand campgrounds and a lower rate at less-popular sites.

Lisa Sumption, OPRD director, said the proposed flexible rates would help the state parks system serve more people during peak camping season.

“Many of our parks have capacity, but people just don’t know about them,” Sumption said. “With the ability to vary campsite rates, we could entice people to explore new parks and hopefully discover their new favorite campground.”

Under the proposed rule change, OPRD would be able to adjust campsite rates for each park individually. Specific rates for each park or campsite would be posted on the state parks website and in the parks. Once a visitor makes a campsite reservation, their rate would not increase.

The public has several opportunities to comment on the proposed rule change:

–Public hearing: OPRD will take public comment at a hearing set for 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Aug. 28 at the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Room 124A, 725 Summer St. NE, Salem.

–Online: Comments can be submitted at oregon.gov/oprd/RULES/Pages/Rulemaking%20Notices.aspx

–In writing: Send comments to Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, attn.: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301.

–E-mail: Send comments to OPRD.publiccomment@oregon.gov

The deadline for making public comment is 5 p.m. on Sept. 10. After reviewing public comments, OPRD will present a final recommended rule for consideration by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission during its September 19 meeting.

Legislation passed during the 2017 session directed OPRD to enact rules governing a reasonable fee range. Full text of the amendment to Oregon Administrative Rule 736-015-0060, 736-015-0020 and 736-015-0040 is available online: oregon.gov/oprd/RULES/Pages/Rulemaking%20Notices.aspx.

OPRD is funded by voter-designated Oregon Lottery net proceeds, recreational vehicle registrations and revenue from park visitors.