The Oregon State Parks Department is suspending fees on New Year鈥檚 Day as a way to get more people to visit. Washington, where a parking pass is typically required to drive into any state park, is also suspending fees as part of that state鈥檚 First Day Hikes program.
Oregon has about 250 parks; admission to most is free, but 25 charge parking fees for drivers. Those fees are being dropped for the day, and rangers will lead educational adventures.
For example, people can join a two-mile hike at L. L. Stub Stewart State Park, south of Vernonia. Boomscooter Trail is renowned for wildlife viewing or just enjoying the outdoors.
Oregon parks department spokesman Jason Resch said he鈥檚 headed to Tryon State Park on Jan. 1. He sees getting outdoors as somewhat spiritual.
鈥淚t鈥檚 a first-day adventure. Or maybe a New Year鈥檚 resolution,鈥� said Resch.
鈥淲hether it鈥檚 just getting outside more, or experiencing something new 鈥� To me that is a pretty big part of why I love it so much.鈥�
Washington鈥檚 First Day Hikes program was launched in 2011, when that state introduced the Discover Pass for vehicle access to state parks and other state recreation sites. The pass costs $30 annually or $10 for a one-day visit, except on a dozen .
Oregon鈥檚 parks department is tweaking its message slightly this year, calling the events 鈥淔irst Day Adventures,鈥� rather than 鈥淔irst Day Hikes.鈥� Agency leaders want to make sure everyone feels welcome.
While first-day adventurers are welcome to go snowshoeing or skiing, no special equipment is needed for the ranger-led events. But many state parks will be cold and snowy. Visitors should dress in layers, wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
A camera or binoculars is also good for viewing wildlife.
Fees for overnight camping and other services remain in place.
Copyright 2023 Oregon Public Broadcasting
