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We did dabble in an out-of-state surcharge years ago. Most campsites are occupied by Oregonians, though Washington (our lead out-of-state source of visitors) and California make up about 40-45% of our summer campers. The extra charge didn't raise a significant amount of money, and our neighbors to the north and south started doing the same to Oregonians. Really, I think you could make a stronger argument for a nonresident surcharge if state parks were supported by tax dollars (and even then, it wouldn't be a slam dunk). As it is, parks are funded mainly by money collected from visitors. Oregonians who own an RV pay a registration fee, and some of that money goes to the state aprk system (some goes to county parks). Oregon Lottery makes up the rest.

posted 4 years ago
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Well, it does depend on where you go. State Parks are popular on holidays, and if what you want is something a little less social, I'd recommend going to a smaller state park (I like Washburne, Humbug Mountain, Cape Blanco here on the wet side, and places like Jackson Kimball, Red Bridge and Minam on the wet), or head to a small National Forest or county campground. I think the point is, find a place you like that suits your personality, and get out and enjoy it.

posted 4 years ago
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