Idaho State Parks Enact Non
Wednesday June 9, 2021
Camping and entry fees for non-Idaho residents will double at select Idaho State Parks on Thursday to comply with a new state law.
The daily, non-resident entry fee at Bear Lake, Farragut, Hells Gate, Priest Lake and Round Lake will be $14 starting on June 10, 2021 twice the fee for Idaho residents at those parks. At other State Parks, Idaho residents and out-of-state guests will pay the same $7 fee to get in.
Additionally, camping fees for non-Idaho residents at Farragut, Henrys Lake, Ponderosa, Priest Lake and Round Lake will be double what Idahoans pay. For example, a basic campsite at those parks will cost $48 for a night, while a site with full hookups will cost $64 for a non-Idaho resident in both cases, double the $24 and $32, respectively, that Idahoans pay.
Idaho State Parks implemented the changes to comply with House Bill 93, which specified increases for some of the states busiest parks for day use and camping.
The changes will keep Idaho competitive with surrounding states, which have similar surcharges for out-of-state guests, said Susan Buxton, director of the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation. Even with these increases, our parks are a good value given the exceptional recreational opportunities at our parks.
Where To Purchase Your Passport
You can purchase your Idaho State Parks Passport online using your Idaho Transportation Department issued registration renewal card. The online portal will prompt you to include an additional $10 with your annual registration fees and will calculate your total automatically. Your Passport will be sent by mail with your vehicle registration stickers.
You can purchase your Idaho State Parks Passport by mail, using your Idaho Transportation Department issued registration renewal card. Simply include an additional $10 with your annual registration fees in your payment to ITD . It’s a good idea to write “Includes Park Passport” on the memo line in the lower left hand corner of your check. Your Passport will be sent by mail with your vehicle registration stickers.
You can purchase your Idaho State Parks Passport at any County DMV Office in Idaho, in conjunction with your vehicle registration or on its own. Provide your license plate number for easy customer look-up.
The Passport goes on the lower corner of the driver’s side of your windshield.
Our out-of-state guests have savings options too! You can purchase a $80 Motor Vehicle Entry Fee Annual sticker, which waives the daily motor vehicle entrance fee – a savings of $7 per day . MVEF Annual stickers can be purchased at any Idaho State Park and online.
Idaho Park Fees Rise For Out
This file photo shows the view of a sunset over Payette Lake from Ponderosa State Park in McCall, a camping destination thats especially popular with Treasure Valley residents.
- Idaho State Parks & Rec, file
The Huckleberry Bay Loop trail in Ponderosa State Park in McCall leads to a beautiful lookout over Payette Lake.
- Holly Beech/Meridian Press
BOISE Idaho started doubling camping fees for out-of-staters at its five most popular state parks on Thursday, as required by a new law passed by the Legislature this year, but it will be at least a year before we see if it helps Idahoans get spots in the popular parks because all five, including Ponderosa in McCall, booked up immediately for the whole summer as soon as reservations opened back in December.
Its kind of a scramble when the nine-month book-ahead window opens, said state parks spokesman Craig Quintana. It books up within the hour.
Existing reservations are grandfathered in under the law, HB 93, and their fees wont rise.
The sad fact is, if we could magically snap our fingers and double our inventory, we would still sell out, Quintana said. We need more camping, pretty much across our system.
Idaho state Parks Director Susan Buxton welcomed the move, and the bill passed both houses and was signed into law March 19, taking effect immediately. However, that was too late to affect this years camping season, since all the most popular state park campgrounds already are booked for the summer.
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Want Free Camping You Might Get Free Camping
Camping as a host in the state parks is a great way to camp for free, meet new people and learn new skills. Not only will you get free camping for up to an entire summer, but youll also receive free training to help you become a better host. You will have to do some work like offering guests information on the park, refilling restrooms and some maintenance duties around the campground, but many hosts find it worth it. In addition to free camping for anywhere from 30 days to an entire season, you can enjoy a free annual pass to the park!
Low-income families can save on camping in Idaho state parks! Idaho provides a $4 discount to families considered low-income. While you can show tax statements or pay stubs to provide proof of your income status, the easiest way to get camping discounts is providing a SNAP or other federal assistance benefit card. You may also provide proof of need by showing SSI or SSDI benefits.
Veterans who are 100% disabled from 100% service-related issues can camp for free at Idaho state parks. You must provide proof of service-related disability and your status as a 100% disabled veteran. If you qualify, you will also get free entrance into the parks. The free entrance and free camping only apply to Idaho veterans, but if you are coming from out of state you can check with the specific park youre visiting to find out if they offer discounts to disabled veterans. Each park has different policies concerning veteran discounts.
States That Have Additional Charges For Out
Connecticut
Non-resident campers in a Connecticut state park can expect to pay $5 to $15 more per night for campsites and cabin rentals.
Delaware
Camping in one of Delawares five state parks will cost visitors $5 to $10 more than residents in the spring, fall, and summer seasons. In the winter, no additional fee is charged to out-of-staters.
Hawaii
Non-resident visitors to Hawaiis state parks can anticipate paying $5 to $30 more per night to stay in a state park campsite or cabin.
Idaho
Idaho recently implemented a fee increase for out-of-state campers at its busiest state parks, including Farragut, Henrys Lake, Ponderosa, Priest Lake, and Round Lake. At these parks, non-residents will pay double what residents pay, with nightly rates starting at $48 for a basic campsite.
Non-residents will pay $5 more per night to camp at Nevada state parks.
New Jersey
The fee to camp in New Jerseys state parks is $5 more per night for out-of-state campers and $10 more per night for cabins.
New Mexico
New Mexicos camping fees on a per-night basis are the same for residents and non-residents however, its popular Annual Camping Permit is less expensive for residents.
New York
Out-of-state campers at state parks in New York can expect to pay $5 extra per night for campsites and $7 extra per night for cabins and yurts.
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
Wisconsin
Wyoming
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Do Senior Citizens Get Into State Parks For Free
Some states, but not all, welcome senior citizens into their state parks for free. Its best to call ahead or search online for discounted rates before arriving. The same goes for military members or veterans check with each state park system for discounted rates.
Whether youre visiting for the day or staying for a week, state parks offer the opportunity to recreate and relax in some of the most beautiful natural areas in the U.S. Ready to start planning your trip?
The Idaho State Parks Passport
Home / The Idaho State Parks Passport
The Idaho State Parks Passport is a $10 annual sticker for Idahoans that is available for purchase at the time you register your motorhome or passenger vehicle online, by mail-in renewal or at any county DMV office.
The Passport is a good deal for you and great for Idaho, in that proceeds help keep our cherished outdoor public places accessible for years to come!
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There Are Lots Of Activities For Kids In Idaho State Parks
The official Idaho state parks mascot, Scout the Fox, helps kids navigate the parks and learn more about the things each park has to offer. Scout the Fox has been the mascot for years and often visits Idaho classrooms. When you see Scout at state park events, be sure to visit because theres almost always free swag!
From stargazing to free classes and special events in between, kids can get great opportunities at the state parks. Many kids activities are free and will always be listed on the calendar of events!
The Idaho State Parks Passport:
The Idaho State Parks Passport is a $10 annual sticker for Idahoans that is available for purchase at the time you register your motorhome or passenger vehicle online, by mail-in renewal or at any county DMV office.
The Passport is a good deal for you and great for Idaho, in that proceeds help keep our cherished outdoor public places accessible for years to come!
- Is just $10 for Idahoans, per vehicle, per year!
- Offers unlimited day-use access to every Idaho State Park
- Covers boat launch fees within Idaho State Parks
- Provides access to hundreds of miles of hiking, cycling, mountain biking and Nordic trails
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Idaho State Parks Have A Lot To Do
Its easy to find activities in the Idaho state parks. The parks offer conservation information, interpretive centers and even museums in some areas. At all the state parks, you can learn about nature and the different ecosystems in Idaho. You can also learn about the things the parks have to offer and the history of them. Most activities are free.
Visiting Sacred Encounters is a great way to learn more about history. While the encounter is not included in your state park admission, you can learn more about all the things that happened to make the state park what it is. The cost is only $5 to get into Sacred Encounters.
Each park has different trails and options for people to enjoy while at the state parks. In addition to actually visiting the trails, you can learn more about safety and different hiking options while youre there. The trails are all marked for different levels of difficulty, from kid-friendly to expert!
How Do You Get A State Park Pass
Many states offer state park passes to residents and non-residents, allowing unlimited day-use entry to state park facilities, trailheads, boat launches, and other recreational amenities. Sometimes, these passes also offer a discounted rate on camping. State park passes can often be purchased online, over the phone, and at local park offices. Check the state park systems website for more info.
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Idaho Parks And Recreation Simplifies Camping Fee Structure Increase Entrance Fee
Monday November 30, 2020
IDAHO Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation will adopt a new fee structure and site-type simplification that will go into effect on Thursday, December 10, 2020. There will also be a $2 increase in the motor vehicle entrance fee, from $5 to $7, which has not been increased in over 20 years.
The fee structure and campsite-type simplifications are designed to make the reservation process easier by limiting the amount of site types from which to choose. In effect, the number of campsite options has been reduced to three: Basic, Electric, and Full Hook-Up. For example, the term Serviced Site has been eliminated and replaced with either Electric Site or Full Hook-Up Site, making it easier to identify what the ideal campsite is for all customers.
This also means a fee increase across the board, ranging from 8%-16% per site. It should also be noted that the new fees are now tax inclusive and more transparent to the customer.
With our improved fee structure, users will know exactly what they are paying for their sites. And additional revenue from the fee increases will be used to improve and maintain campsites, ensuring users have great outdoor experiences for generations to come, said Susan Buxton, IDPR Interim Director.
Customers can expect to see the new site types and fee increases when the nine-month reservation window reopens on December 10, 2020 as well as on self-pay envelopes for both day use and walk-up camping.
These State Parks Charge More For Out
In recent years, weve noticed a growing trend of state parks implementing different fee structures and reservation policies for resident and non-resident campers. While these types of regulations may be implemented differently in each state, theyre generally designed to allow residents the chance to enjoy their state parks at a lower cost than out-of-staters.
This is great news if youre a resident and less-great if youre not. But while it can sting to pay extra as a non-resident, state park campgrounds still offer some of the best value youll find on the road, especially if you love camping in nature.
Here are the states where you should expect to pay a bit more as an out-of-state visitor. And for a full list of state park campground reservation policies in all 50 states, visit Campendiums Guide to State Park Camping Reservations.
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Idaho State Parks Doubling Fees For Non
Non-Idaho residents are about to see a fee hike when traveling to Idaho to experience the great outdoors as camping and entry fees are going to double.
The increase will only impact non-Idaho residents due to a new state law.
Idaho State Parks implemented the changes to comply with House Bill 93, which specified increases for some of the states busiest parks for day use and camping.
The daily, non-resident entry fee at Bear Lake, Farragut, Hells Gate, Priest Lake and Round Lake will be $14 starting on June 10, 2021. At other State Parks, Idaho residents and out-of-state guests will pay the same $7 fee to get in.
Additionally, camping fees for non-Idaho residents at Farragut, Henrys Lake, Ponderosa, Priest Lake and Round Lake will be double what Idahoans pay.
Idaho State Parks set a visitation record in 2020 with nearly 7.7 million people coming to the parks for day use and camping, 1.2 million higher than the previous record.
Get Into Idaho State Parks For Free
Got a fourth grader? They can get into Idaho state parks totally free . National parks teamed up for Every Kid in a Park to give free national park passes to fourth graders. The good news is that Idaho honors these park passes in their state parks. If you havent already gotten your Every Kid in a Park pass, you can apply through Idaho state parks or the National Parks website.
If you dont have a vehicle, you may actually get into the parks for free. Most Idaho state parks only charge an entrance fee for vehicles coming into the park. That means if you live close to one of the state parks or youre staying close to one, you can get in for free! Not all of the state parks are free to get into. Also, not all of the state parks offer free activities for you to do once youre in the park.
Each year, Idaho state parks offer free days. The state parks may offer different days each year and the days might even vary from year to year. Many times, the state parks will also offer free activities and other things for you to enjoy. Its great to plan your trips around these free days to help your whole family save some money!
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Save Money And Enjoy Outdoor Time At Idaho State Parks
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Love spending time in nature and enjoying all the different things Idaho state parks have to offer? Dont want to keep throwing money you dont have at vehicle entry fees to get into the park? We found some solutions!
Henrys Lake State Park
3917 E. 5100 N., Island Park, ID 83429
Located on beautiful Henrys Lake with sweeping views of the surrounding plains and mountains, this campground offers nature trails, guided hikes, a Junior Ranger program, and excellent trout fishing. And while its a worthwhile destination in its own right, Henrys Lake is also located only 15 miles from the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park. The campgrounds newer Caddis loop has 35 different 50-foot-long sites with full hookups, however, these are all first come, first served. Two other loops have 75 reservable sites with partial hookups and a variety of sizes. The openness of the campground does mean that there is less shade and more wind, but on the plus side, cell service is strong. If youre looking for a serene Yellowstone camping experience with hookups at a reasonable rate, dont overlook this Idaho state park.
Idaho state park campgrounds that accommodate RV camping
Bear Lake State Park
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Save Money On Idaho State Parks
Getting into Idaho state parks is cheap compared to some parks. You can get into the state parks for only $5 per vehicle per day. The entry fee applies to most regular passenger vehicles. The entry fee may be more on special occasions or it may be waived during certain times of the year. You must pay the entry fee at all the state parks in cash.
If youre an out of state visitor, you can get an annual pass for only $40. Its worth it if you plan to visit the state parks more than eight times. Its also perfect for people who live in a border state close to an Idaho state park and want to visit on a regular basis. The pass is good for two vehicles and can be used for an entire year. There are some instances where the pass will cost you less if you purchase it during certain times of the year.
In-state visitors can get an Idaho state parks passport for $10 per year. You can purchase the passport with your vehicle registration. Since you can register your vehicle for one or two years in Idaho, you can have your pass match, but keep in mind they are unable to prorate it if you have a two-year registration. For example, you cannot register your car for two years and only purchase a one-year state parks passport.