Kansas park plan would end annual camping permits, increase other fees
The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks is proposing changes to its fees for camping or using any of the state’s 28 parks.
The proposal would eliminate the annual camping permit, according to a news release, and increase overnight camping rates. An overnight camping permit would increase from $9 to $15. Fees for utility hookups such as water, electric or sewage also would go up.
“Utility and operational costs for our state parks have risen nearly 45 percent since 2016,” said Conner O’Flannagan, state parks director, in the news release. “These proposed changes are necessary to ensure our parks remain safe, well-maintained, and accessible to all Kansans, both now and for future generations.”
The annual permit for vehicles to enter the state parks would increase from $25 to $40. The annual vehicle permit for seniors or disabled Kansas residents would increase from $12.50 to $20.
Fees will stay the same for now, according to the release. Any changes would require approval of the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission.
The department is hosting public meetings to provide information on the proposed fee changes, answer questions and get feedback from residents.
Meeting schedule:
- El Dorado State Park Shooting Range, 2980 NE Shady Creek Access Road, El Dorado, KS 67042, 5 p.m. Sept. 23
- Mariah Hills Golf Course, 1800 Matt Down Lane, Dodge City, KS 67801, 6:30 p.m. Oct. 24
- Fort Hays State University Memorial Union 208 – Black and Gold Room (Second Floor), 700 College Drive, Hays, KS 67601. 7 p.m. Nov. 3
- Flint Hills Discovery Center, 315 S. 3rd St., Manhattan, KS 66502, 6:30 p.m. Dec. 3
For more information, head to ksoutdoors.gov/State-Parks
This story was originally published September 2, 2025 at 4:09 PM.
