Enhanced funding enables KDWP fee reduction effective Jan. 1

The cost of visiting Kansas state parks is going down in 2007. In a public hearing in Chanute Oct. 26, the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission approved changes in state park vehicle entrance fees, effective Jan. 1, 2007.

The changes in fees at the state parks for calendar year 2007 were made possible through enhanced funding support from the Governor and the Legislature for a request by Kansas Wildlife and Parks to reduce entrance fees. Historically, Kansas state parks have been funded by a combination of user fees and state general revenue funds. However, in recent years Kansas state park fees had been increased to accommodate declining appropriations from the State General Fund. The actions of the Governor and 2006 Legislature reversed that trend. As a result, state park visitors in 2007 will enjoy vehicle entrance fees that are roughly half the cost of fees in 2006.

For 2007, state park vehicle entrance permit fees will be:
OFF-SEASON (Oct. 1 – March 31)

• Daily vehicle permit -- $3.70 (senior/disabled: $2.60)
• Annual vehicle permit -- $19.35 (senior/disabled: $10.75)
• Additional annual vehicle permit -- $11.85 (senior/disabled: $7)

IN-SEASON (April 1 – Sept. 30)

• Daily vehicle permit -- $4.20 (senior/disabled: $2.85)
• Annual vehicle permit -- $24.35 (senior/disabled: $13.25)
• Additional annual vehicle permit -- $14.35 (senior/disabled: $8.25)

(Costs listed include applicable service fees, except online purchase convenience fee.)

The Parks Division of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks operates a system of 24 parks and the Prairie Spirit Rail-Trail. Most state parks provide utility and primitive camping, and are located adjacent to lakes or reservoirs. In addition to camping facilities, parks offer boat ramps, courtesy docks, shelterhouses, swimming beaches, trails, and a variety of other amenities. Parks also host numerous special events, such as concerts and festivals, throughout the year.

More information on state parks is also available at the department’s website.
-30-

Back to November 2006 News