In recent years, we’ve noticed a growing trend of state parks implementing different fee structures and reservation policies for resident and non-resident campers. While these types of regulations may be implemented differently in each state, they’re generally designed to allow residents the chance to enjoy their state parks at a lower cost than out-of-staters.
This is great news if you’re a resident and less-great if you’re not. But while it can sting to pay extra as a non-resident, state park campgrounds still offer some of the best value you’ll find on the road, especially if you love camping in nature.
Here are the states where you should expect to pay a bit more as an out-of-state visitor. And for a full list of state park campground reservation policies in all 50 states, visit Campendium’s Guide to State Park Camping Reservations.
States That Have Additional Charges for Out-of-State Campers
Connecticut
Non-resident campers in a Connecticut state park can expect to pay $5 to $15 more per night for campsites and cabin rentals.
Delaware
Camping in one of Delaware’s five state parks will cost visitors $5 to $10 more than residents in the spring, fall, and summer seasons. In the winter, no additional fee is charged to out-of-staters.
Hawaii
Non-resident visitors to Hawaii’s state parks can anticipate paying $5 to $30 more per night to stay in a state park campsite or cabin.
Idaho
Idaho recently implemented a fee increase for out-of-state campers at its busiest state parks, including Farragut, Henrys Lake, Ponderosa, Priest Lake, and Round Lake. At these parks, non-residents will pay double what residents pay, with nightly rates starting at $48 for a basic campsite.
Maine
Maine state parks charge an extra $10 per night per campsite for out-of-state visitors.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts recently increased the camping fee for non-resident campers to its state parks. Across the state, expect to pay two to three times the resident camping fee as a non-resident, as well as nightly surcharges at some popular campgrounds.
Montana
Though Montana’s state park camping fees are higher for out-of-staters, the state offers a Nonresident Entrance Pass that allows for free park entrance and resident camping rates. The 12-month pass costs $50 per vehicle, and a 7-day pass costs $35 per vehicle.
Nevada
Non-residents will pay $5 more per night to camp at Nevada state parks.
New Jersey
The fee to camp in New Jersey’s state parks is $5 more per night for out-of-state campers and $10 more per night for cabins.
New Mexico
New Mexico’s camping fees on a per-night basis are the same for residents and non-residents; however, its popular Annual Camping Permit is less expensive for residents.
New York
Out-of-state campers at state parks in New York can expect to pay $5 extra per night for campsites and $7 extra per night for cabins and yurts.
Oregon
Non-resident RV campers to Oregon’s state parks now pay 25 percent more per night than residents. The increase does not apply to tent campsites or cabins.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania’s rate structure starts with a base campsite price and then adds on additional costs for amenities such as electricity, water, and sewer. While the amenity fees are the same for residents and non-residents, the base campsite price is higher for non-residents.
Rhode Island
Camping at a state park in Rhode Island costs significantly more for out-of-state visitors than for residents. Non-residents can anticipate paying at least double the resident rate.
Vermont
Vermont charges an additional $2 per night for out-of-state campers in its state parks.
Virginia
Out-of-state campers in Virginia’s state parks can expect to pay an additional $5 per night for campsites (more for group sites).
Washington
Washington doesn’t charge a higher campsite rate for out-of-state visitors; however, it adds a $5 fee to non-resident reservations. This is in addition to the regular reservation fee of $8 for reservations made online and $10 for those made over the phone.
Wisconsin
While camping rates for residents and nonresidents are the same, to enter a state park or forest campers must have a Wisconsin State Park System vehicle admission sticker. Out-of-state visitors can expect to pay $3 more for daily stickers and $10 extra for the annual admission sticker.
Wyoming
The base rate for campgrounds in Wyoming is $10 for residents and $18 for non-residents, plus a day-use fee and lodging tax.
Which states have free state parks?
States that offer free day-use entry to all state parks include Illinois, Iowa (with the exception of two locations), Missouri, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Tennessee.
How do you get a state park pass?
Many states offer state park passes to residents and non-residents, allowing unlimited day-use entry to state park facilities, trailheads, boat launches, and other recreational amenities. Sometimes, these passes also offer a discounted rate on camping. State park passes can often be purchased online, over the phone, and at local park offices. Check the state park system’s website for more info.
Do senior citizens get into state parks for free?
Some states, but not all, welcome senior citizens into their state parks for free. It’s best to call ahead or search online for discounted rates before arriving. The same goes for military members or veterans; check with each state park system for discounted rates.
Whether you’re visiting for the day or staying for a week, state parks offer the opportunity to recreate and relax in some of the most beautiful natural areas in the U.S. Ready to start planning your trip?
