Oregon state parks eliminate winter discounts

MEDFORD, Ore. — Oregon state parks are ending their annual winter discounts on camping fees.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department said the across-the-board discounts will be replaced by targeted deals starting next year.

The 20-year-old “discovery season” program reduced tent and recreational vehicle campsite fees by $4 a night. They’ll remain in effect through the end of April at all state park campgrounds.

The Mail Tribune reported that parking and camping fees provide $21 million of the $48 million it costs to operate state parks each year. The rest comes from a portion of RV licensing revenue and state lottery proceeds.

The parks department said a decline in lottery revenue is part of the reason for eliminating the seasonal discount. Officials estimate the change will generate $400,000 to $500,000 in additional yearly revenue.

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