A notice by the County Parks department states that, to address the rising costs and secure the quality of their recreational offerings, visitors will encounter fee increases on certain services beginning January 2, 2026. According to the official announcement, this will include hikes on campsites, fishing licenses, and rentals, among others.
While the price bumps are modest—full hookup campsites going from $40 to $42 per night—it's the picnic area reservation that will see a more noticeable rise, adding $25 to the current price. The department justifies these changes as a measure to align their fees with the prevailing rates charged by similar facilities, thereby maintaining value for customers. For those preparing early for outdoor adventures, reservations paid in full before January 2 will benefit from the old rates, the department stated in a press release obtained by the County Parks department.
Even with the price adjustments, the County Parks system is touted to remain a deal compared to its park system peers. The parks offer a plethora of free programs and cover over 59,000 acres of diverse landscapes, which include historical sites, community centers, and much more. With this balance, the department aims to serve a broad spectrum of park-goers, keeping day-use parking fees modest at $5, and securing the park's role as an affordable recreation option for the masses.
Amid the adjustments, County Parks reaffirms its commitment to inclusivity and financial accessibility. Non-profits will continue the receive a 25% cut on facility rentals, demonstrating the department's ongoing support for community groups. Discounts for veterans, seniors, and certain groups, alongside scholarships and the gratis First Time Camping Program, will persist as well, ensuring that everyone—the discounts intended for—for all despite your background or income level, can enjoy what the parks have to offer.
County Parks holds the CAPRA accreditation, a recognition of its standards of excellence that's shared with only five other park systems in California.
