KANSAS DEPARTMENT OF WILDLIFE AND PARKS
PRATT – The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) will host five public meetings this fall to gather input from Kansans on proposed changes to state park fees. Officials say the town hall-style sessions will give residents a chance to ask questions, learn more about the proposals, and share their feedback before any decisions are finalized.
Under the proposal, both camping and vehicle permits would see increases for the first time in several years. KDWP State Parks Director Conner O’Flannagan said rising costs have left the agency with little choice.
“Utility and operational costs for our state parks have risen nearly 45 percent since 2016,” O’Flannagan said. “These proposed changes are necessary to ensure our parks remain safe, well-maintained, and accessible to all Kansans, both now and for future generations.”
Meeting Schedule
• Sept. 3, 5 p.m. – Hillsdale State Park Shooting Range, Paola
• Sept. 23, 5 p.m. – El Dorado State Park Shooting Range, El Dorado
• Oct. 24, 6:30 p.m. – Mariah Hills Golf Course, Dodge City
• Nov. 3, 7 p.m. – Fort Hays State University Memorial Union, Hays
• Dec. 3, 6:30 p.m. – Flint Hills Discovery Center, Manhattan
Proposed Camping Fee Changes
• Eliminate the Annual State Park Camping Permit due to unsustainable costs.
• Increase overnight camping fees:
Overnight Camping Permit from $9 to $15
One-Utility Site from $9 to $11
Two-Utility Site from $11 to $13
Three-Utility Site from $12 to $15
• Overnight Camping Permit from $9 to $15
• One-Utility Site from $9 to $11
• Two-Utility Site from $11 to $13
• Three-Utility Site from $12 to $15
• Raise the 14-Night Camping Permit from $110 to $165.
• Streamline the Seasonal Camping Program into one statewide tier with fees ranging from $680 to $800, depending on utility hookup type.
Proposed Vehicle Permit Changes
• Annual State Park Vehicle Permit from $25 to $40.
• State Park Passport (purchased with vehicle registration) from $15 to $30, maintaining a $10 discount.
• Senior/Disability Annual Permit from $12.50 to $20.
• Daily Vehicle Fee from $5 to $8.
KDWP emphasized that the fees have not yet been changed and any adjustments will require a vote of approval by the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission.