2025-00507NoticeWallet

Government Discovers River Camping, Immediately Adds Price Tag

Published Date: 1/13/2025

Notice

Summary

Starting July 14, 2025, campers using on-river sites in the Gunnison River area of Colorado’s Dominguez-Escalante National Conservation Area will need to pay new fees. These fees help protect the land and keep camping safe and fun for everyone. If you love camping here, get ready to chip in a bit to keep this beautiful spot awesome!

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.

On‑River ISRP Camping Fees

For on‑river camping in the Gunnison River SRMA, Individual Special Recreation Permit (ISRP) fees will be $20 per night per site for small groups (1–5 participants), $50 per night per site for medium groups (6–14 participants), and $100 per night per site for large groups (15–25 participants). These participant counts include non‑human participants such as dogs or horses.

Fees Tied to Western U.S. CPI

After implementation, the BLM will use the Western U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI) yearly average to decide fee increases; when that CPI rises by 20 percent, the fees may be increased by the same amount, rounded up to the nearest dollar. The BLM will check the CPI each year after fees begin.

Developed Campsite Fee: $20/Night

Starting July 14, 2025, developed campsites in the Dominguez-Escalante NCA (including Big Dominguez and Potholes and future designated sites) will charge an expanded amenity fee of $20 per night per site. That price includes up to two vehicles and up to five participants per vehicle; each additional vehicle beyond the first two costs $10 per night.

Dispersed/Day‑Use Camping Stays Free

Day‑use areas and places that allow dispersed or undeveloped camping in the Dominguez‑Escalante NCA will remain available without a reservation or a fee. You can still use those undeveloped sites without paying the new fees.

50% Discount for Passholders

Holders of the America the Beautiful Pass—such as the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Senior Pass, Access Pass, or Golden Age/Golden Access Passport—are entitled to a 50 percent reduction on expanded amenity fees for developed campsites. This 50% reduction does not apply to ISRP fees.

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Key Dates

Published Date
Effective Date
1/13/2025
7/14/2025

Department and Agencies

Department
Independent Agency
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