Additional Oregon State Parks to Require Day Use Parking Permits

Fees will help fund maintenance and operations at 22 more state parks starting March 30, 2026

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Starting March 30, 2026, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will no longer waive the parking fee at 22 additional day-use state parks. A day-use parking permit currently costs $10 for in-state visitors and $12 for out-of-state visitors and is valid for the entire day at any Oregon state park. Access to parks remains free for visitors who walk, bike, or use public transportation.

Why it matters

The parking fees help pay for the maintenance and operation of amenities like restrooms, trails, boat ramps, and other features that visitors expect and rely on at Oregon's state parks. With only about 35% of OPRD's funding coming from park fees, the additional parking fees will help keep these parks safe, clean, and welcoming for all.

The details

The 22 additional parks were selected based on the amenities and features that require maintenance and operation. Visitors can show valid parking by displaying a current hangtag from camping at an Oregon State Park, a current 12 or 24-month parking permit, or by purchasing a parking permit online or via QR codes at the park. OPRD currently requires a day-use parking permit at 46 parks and waives parking fees at over 150 parks across the state.

  • Starting March 30, 2026, OPRD will no longer waive the parking fee at 22 additional day-use state parks.
  • A day-use parking permit currently costs $10 for in-state visitors and $12 for out-of-state visitors.

The players

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD)

The state agency responsible for managing and maintaining Oregon's state parks system.

Stefanie Coons

Interim Director of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department.

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What they’re saying

“These updates are about protecting the experiences visitors love. We know fee changes are tough and we truly appreciate the support from visitors. These changes help us take care of things people count on like restrooms, boat ramps, and trails, so we can keep parks safe, clean, and welcoming for everyone.”

— Stefanie Coons, Interim Director (mybasin.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These parking fee changes at Oregon's state parks highlight the ongoing challenge of balancing visitor access and experience with the need for sustainable funding to maintain park amenities and infrastructure. As more parks adopt paid parking, it will be important for OPRD to communicate the rationale and benefits clearly to the public.