How are Oregon State Parks funded?

Oregon state parks are a treasure trove of natural beauty, offering everything from coastal views at Oswald West to desert landscapes at Cottonwood Canyon and dense forests at Alfred A. Loeb. But maintaining these parks and keeping them accessible to the public requires funding. Unlike national parks, which rely on federal budgets, Oregon’s state parks are primarily supported by state-level resources and a mix of funding sources — not general fund tax dollars from Oregonians. Here’s an overview of how Oregon’s state parks are funded and what makes their financial model unique.

Oregon Lottery funds

One of the primary sources of funding for Oregon State Parks is the Oregon Lottery. Since the passage of Measure 66 in 1998, a portion of lottery profits has been dedicated to the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). Approximately 7.5% of lottery proceeds are directed toward state parks and historic preservation. These funds are crucial in maintaining park facilities, protecting natural habitats, and improving visitor services.

The lottery funding model is relatively stable, allowing for long-term planning and infrastructure investments. It helps cover operational costs like park maintenance, trail improvements, and the preservation of historic sites.

Recreational vehicle (RV) fees

Oregon’s love for the outdoors is reflected in its large number of RV campers, and the state benefits financially from this. A portion of RV registration fees collected by the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is directed to state parks. This money helps maintain campgrounds and RV facilities, ensuring visitors have access to well-maintained areas for camping.

RV fees are particularly important for parks that cater to RV enthusiasts, providing crucial funds for maintaining electrical hookups, sewage systems, and campground improvements.

Day-use and camping fees

Oregon state parks charge day-use fees at some of their most popular locations, as well as camping fees for overnight stays. While not all parks require an entrance fee, many of the larger or more visited parks like Silver Falls and Smith Rock do. These fees are an important revenue stream, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Camping fees help maintain campsites, shower facilities, and park infrastructure. Day-use fees, while relatively small, add up over time and provide supplemental income for the parks system.

Park passes

In addition to individual fees, Oregon offers annual state park passes that give visitors unlimited access to day-use areas. The sale of these passes provides a steady income stream and encourages frequent park visits. The revenue from park pass sales is directed toward maintaining park facilities and improving visitor experiences.

Donations and private partnerships

Oregon State Parks also receive funding from private donations and partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Groups like the Oregon Parks Forever raise funds to support park projects and improvements. Additionally, donations from individual visitors can be used for specific park enhancements, educational programs, or conservation efforts.

These partnerships and donations play a key role in funding projects that may not be covered by regular state funds, such as restoring historic landmarks or expanding recreational programs.

Grants and federal funds

Though state parks primarily rely on state resources, they also benefit from occasional federal grants. Programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) help finance land acquisition, park development, and habitat restoration. While not a consistent funding source, these grants are a valuable tool for expanding Oregon’s park system and protecting critical habitats.

Volunteer programs

While not a direct source of funding, Oregon’s robust volunteer programs significantly reduce operational costs. Volunteers help with trail maintenance, park cleanup, visitor education, and wildlife conservation efforts. Their work helps stretch park budgets further, allowing the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to focus its financial resources on larger projects and essential services.

Timber and resource revenue

Some state parks, especially those in forested areas, receive revenue from timber harvesting on state lands. While this is not a primary funding source for all parks, in certain areas, selective logging and resource extraction provide additional income. Oregon strictly regulates these activities to ensure they are environmentally sustainable and compatible with conservation goals.

The funding challenges ahead

Despite these various funding sources, Oregon State Parks face challenges in maintaining and improving the system. Visitor numbers have surged in recent years, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, increasing wear and tear on park facilities. Simultaneously, the rising cost of maintenance and conservation efforts, along with potential economic downturns, poses a risk to the parks’ financial stability.

Proposals to address these challenges include increasing day-use fees, securing money from the general fund, or finding new ways to incorporate funding into vehicle registration, similar to systems in other states like Washington, Montana, and Colorado. These models could ensure that Oregonians contribute directly to the upkeep of the public common, keeping parks affordable and accessible for all residents.