Arizona State Parks Adjusts Fees to Enhance Visitor Experience
Arizona State Parks and Trails is set to increase fees for entry, camping, and tours across its parks, marking a significant step toward sustaining its operations and improving amenities. As the agency operates independently of taxpayer funding, the revenue generated from these changes will directly support the parks’ maintenance and development.
Operating 33 parks without general state funding, Arizona State Parks and Trails covers its expenses through fees collected from visitors. The rising demand for park access, combined with inflation, has created challenges in maintaining sufficient staffing and addressing overdue maintenance projects. This adjustment in fees aims to tackle these issues and enhance the overall visitor experience.
“We are known for having beautiful, clean, safe parks that showcase the diversity and beauty of Arizona,” said Arizona State Parks and Trails Director Bob Broscheid. “To help us continue to provide the best customer service, and keep up with our aging infrastructure, it is necessary for us to raise our rates. Of course, spending more is never anyone’s favorite thing, but I think the public will be happy to know that the fees go directly into supporting the parks they love.”
The additional revenue is expected to fund various enhancements, including extended operating hours, new programming like guided hikes, and improvements to infrastructure such as restrooms, shower buildings, and campgrounds.
New rates will be implemented starting February 25, 2025, as detailed on AZStateParks.com/fee-schedule. The annual pass options will consolidate into a single $200 pass, granting unrestricted access to all parks for up to four adults in a vehicle for a year. Camping fees will vary from $25 to $75 depending on amenities. Day use fees will range from $10 to $30, while specific tour fees will also see an increase, such as those at Kartchner Caverns and Riordan Mansion State Parks.
Arizona State Parks and Trails oversees more than 1,100 structures, including historical sites and essential park infrastructure, with a maintenance backlog exceeding $135 million. Despite partnerships with local communities for some historic parks, the agency remains responsible for their upkeep and future enhancements.
In 2024, the agency expanded its offerings with the opening of Rockin’ River Ranch State Park in Camp Verde, and it continues to plan for new parks, including a site in Chino Valley. The agency employs 260 staff members, including rangers and administrative personnel, to manage these widespread responsibilities.
For further information on Arizona’s state parks, trails, and historic preservation efforts, visitors can call 1-877-MY-PARKS or explore AZStateParks.com.
PRESS CONTACT: Michelle Thompson at (480) 589-8877 – Email: [email protected].
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