Glacier National Park proposes campground fee rate changes
TAYLOR INMAN | Hagadone News Network | UPDATED 2 years, 11 months AGO
REPORTER AND PODCAST HOST Taylor Inman covers Bigfork and the north shore of Flathead Lake for the Bigfork Eagle and the Daily Inter Lake. Her reporting focuses on local government, community issues and the people who shape life in Northwest Montana. Inman began her journalism career at Murray State University’s public radio newsroom and later reported for WKMS, where her work aired on National Public Radio. In addition to reporting, she hosts and contributes to Daily Inter Lake podcasts including News Now. Her work connects listeners and readers with the stories shaping communities across the Flathead Valley. IMPACT: Taylor’s work expands local journalism through both traditional reporting and digital storytelling. | August 12, 2023 12:00 AM
Officials at Glacier National Park are proposing fee rate changes to most front country campgrounds in 2024 and Apgar group sites in 2025.
Public comments on the proposed fee increases will be accepted through Sept. 8.
Front country campgrounds are accessible by car or RV and often have amenities like flush toilets, while backcountry camping is much more primitive and requires getting there on foot.
According to a release from park officials, the proposed rates for campsites would increase between $3 and $10, depending on the type of site. Some group sites could potentially increase up to $30. Others, meanwhile, could decrease up to $20.
The park last increased fee rates in 2007. Officials said in a press release announcing the change that the increases are necessary to be in closer alignment with nearby campgrounds outside the park that provide similar services.
Recreation fees fund projects like trail and campground repairs and improvements, increasing accessibility and facility restoration.
Comments on the proposed changes can be submitted on the National Park Service Planning, Environment and Public Comment website at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/GLACCampgroundFees. Additional information about the proposal can be found at the same website.
Comments also can be submitted via mail to Glacier National Park Office of the Superintendent, P.O. Box 1 West Glacier, MT 59936.
Reporter Taylor Inman can be reached at 406-758-4433 or by emailing [email protected].
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