BLM implements new fee schedule for three popular recreation sites in northern Idaho
COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho–The Bureau of Land Management is implementing new fee schedules at three recreation sites within the Idaho Panhandle managed by the Coeur d’Alene Field Office to improve visitor experience.
These fees were approved in the 2024 business plans, as the demand for public access to outdoor recreation and amenities has significantly increased with the expanding northern Idaho population. Initiating fees provides the BLM with resources needed to cover higher operational and maintenance costs associated with additional use.
The approved business plans incorporate a day-use fee change to $5/day for Killarney Lake, Mica Bay Boater Park, and Huckleberry Campground. Visitors with an America the Beautiful Pass or the Coeur d'Alene Field Office Annual Day-Use Pass (available at fee machines at Blackwell and Mineral Ridge boat launch or at the Coeur d’Alene Field Office) are exempt from the day‑use fee, but they must still complete an on-site fee envelope.
The fee changes were determined through a comparative cost review of similar public and private facilities in surrounding counties. Operational and maintenance costs include trash removal, vault toilet pumping, improving picnic site amenities, vandalism repair and road and trail maintenance. The business plan includes rationale for fee increases, operating costs, comparisons to other campgrounds with similar amenities and anticipated revenue. The proposals went through public comment and review from the BLM Idaho Resource Advisory Council, prior to being approved.
Learn more about how the Coeur d’Alene Field Office staff want to improve your recreational experience by reading the business plan at Recreation Site Business Plans | Bureau of Land Management or call the Coeur d’Alene Field Office at 208-769-5000.
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The BLM manages about 245 million acres of public land located primarily in 12 western states, including Alaska, on behalf of the American people. The BLM also administers 700 million acres of sub-surface mineral estate throughout the nation. Our mission is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of America’s public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.