Vermont state park camping fees could eventually shift to a more flexible pricing system under a proposed rule now moving through the state’s review process.
As Vermont Public reports, the proposal from the Vermont Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation would allow the state to adjust campground and day-use fees based on factors such as demand, park popularity, site characteristics, use patterns, market rates, and the cost of maintaining facilities.
Right now, Vermont state parks largely use a fixed pricing system. Campers pay based on the type of site, available amenities, and whether they are Vermont residents. Under the proposed change, the department would have more flexibility to raise prices at high-demand parks or offer lower rates at underused parks, sites, or slower midweek periods.
Increased Demand = More Pressure on Campgrounds
State Parks Director Nate McKeen told Vermont Public that the goal is not to discourage visitors, but to help the park system keep up with increased demand while avoiding larger fee hikes that can occur when rates remain frozen for long periods.
The proposal would also allow the state to adjust minimum reservation periods and maximum stay lengths based on demand, campsite type, and occupancy patterns.
According to Vermont Public, state parks saw about 600,000 annual visitors before the pandemic. Today, they are seeing more than 1 million visits a year, putting more pressure on campgrounds, roads, bathrooms, and other park infrastructure.
Vermont Would Not Be the First State to Try This
Vermont officials have pointed to similar pricing models used in states such as Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.
The public comment period on the proposal closed May 18. The rule now moves to the Legislative Committee on Administrative Rules for further review.
