Colorado State Parks Hike Fees for Out-of-State Visitors

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Colorado Parks and Wildlife has approved a new pricing structure for state park entry, with out-of-state visitors now required to pay $15 per day to enter, compared to $10 for Colorado residents. The changes, which take effect on May 1, are aimed at increasing financial resilience for park operations and improvements.

Why it matters

The price hike for out-of-state visitors is part of a broader effort by Colorado to generate more revenue for its state park system, which has seen increased usage and costs in recent years. The move could impact tourism and travel plans for those visiting Colorado from other states.

The details

Under the new rules, cars with out-of-state license plates will pay $15 per day to enter Colorado state parks, up from the previous $10 fee. This $15 fee also applies to passenger vans and buses with out-of-state plates operated by commercial businesses. Colorado residents with in-state plates will continue to pay the $10 daily entry fee. An additional $2 fee will also be charged for entry to seven specific state parks.

• The Colorado Parks and Wildlife commission approved the new fee structure on Wednesday, March 6, 2026.
• The increased entry fees for out-of-state visitors will take effect on May 1, 2026.

What’s next

The new fees will take effect on May 1, 2026, and Colorado Parks and Wildlife will monitor the impact on park visitation and revenue.