Bureau of Land Management invites public to comment on proposed John Day Basin fee adjustment
PRINEVILLE, Ore. — The Bureau of Land Management is asking people for input on proposed adjustments in the John Day Basin Fee Area. The area, known for its breathtaking scenery and recreational opportunities along the John Day Wild and Scenic River, serves tens of thousands of visitors each year.
The BLM will use the increased revenue to address site maintenance, upgrade existing facilities, and rising operating costs related to visitor services. Recreational fees are charged for most boating on the John Day River and at four developed campgrounds.
Proposed Fee Adjustments
Service Creek, Muleshoe, Lone Pine, and Big Bend Campgrounds:
- Existing Fees: $5 per campsite, $2 per extra vehicle
- Proposed Fees: $15 per campsite, $30 per group campsite, $5 per extra vehicle
New Burnt Ranch, Priest Hole Campgrounds and Thirtymile Campgrounds:
- Existing Fees: No current fees
- Proposed Fees Once Campgrounds are Constructed:
- $15 per campsite, $30 per group campsite, $5 per extra vehicle
- $5 per vehicle for overnight camping in designated dispersed and overflow areas
Overnight Boating Permits for the John Day River (between Service Creek and Tumwater Falls):
- Existing Low Season Fees: No fees
- Existing High Season Fees: $20 per group for up to 16 people for up to 14 days
- No proposed increase for Low Season Fees
- Proposed High Season Fees: $5 per person per day
Day Use Boating Permits for the John Day River (between Service Creek and Tumwater Falls):
- Existing Low Season Fees: No fees
- Existing High Season Fees: $10 per group for up to 16 people
- No proposed increase for Low Season Fees
- Proposed High Season Fees: $5 per person per day
- Proposed Frequent Non-Commercial Boater Pass: $30 per person per calendar year for day use boating on Segments 3A/3B and 1A/1B, except for Segment 1A/1B during Fall High Season, passes would be non-transferrable
Public comments may be submitted via email to [email protected], with “John Day Basin Fee Area” in the subject line. All comments must be received by September 15, 2025.
For more details or to view the proposed John Day Basin Fee Area Business Plan, please visit Recreation Site Business Plans or contact Monica Morin at 541-416-6718, or [email protected].
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.