Triple Forests Charge Fees for Fun Times Ahead
Published Date: 9/8/2026
Notice
Summary
The Grand Mesa, Uncompahgre, and Gunnison National Forests are proposing to establish two special recreation permits. Proposed recreation fees collected at the proposed recreation fee sites and for the proposed special recreation permit would be used for operation, maintenance, and improvement of the sites and the special recreation use covered by the proposed special recreation permit. An analysis of nearby recreation fee sites and special recreation uses with similar amenities shows that the proposed recreation fees are reasonable and typical of similar recreation fee sites and special recreation uses in the area.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 3 costs, 0 mixed.
Day-use hike $5 permit
If you visit the Blue Lakes–Mt Sneffels Wilderness for a day hike, you would be charged a $5 per person per day noncommercial special recreation permit. If approved, this fee could be in effect no earlier than March 8, 2027.
Overnight camping $25 permit
If you camp overnight at Blue Lakes–Mt Sneffels Wilderness, you would be charged a $25 per site per night special recreation permit. If approved, this fee could be in effect no earlier than March 8, 2027.
Reservation platform transaction fees
If you reserve these permits online or by phone, reservations would cost $1.00 per reservation for the day-use hike permit and $6.00 per reservation for the overnight camping permit. These $1.00 and $6.00 charges are transaction fees kept by the recreation.gov service provider and are not Forest Service recreation fees.
Fee revenue spent locally (80% rule)
At least 80 percent of the proposed recreation fees would be spent where they are collected to enhance the visitor experience, support operation, maintenance, and improvement of the sites, and address maintenance needs. Fee revenue would be used to improve recreation opportunities and customer service at the sites.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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