SB1253: OK Considers Extra Fines for Camping at State Parks

Non-resident park fees rejected: entry stays the same

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What did SB1253 want to accomplish?

SB1253 wanted to set rules for state parks in Oklahoma.

It covers a few key points:

1. Camping Rules: People can't camp at a reserved campsite unless they have reserved it. This keeps others from taking spots that belong to someone else.
2. Entry Fees: Everyone must pay an entry fee to go into a state park. If someone doesn't pay, they could get fined.
3. Fines: The bill sets up fines for people who break these rules, and the money from those fines will go to the state.
4. Fees for Non-Residents: People who don’t live in Oklahoma will have to pay a fee of up to $16 a day to enter state parks. The Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Commission will decide the exact amount.
5. Proof of Residency: If someone wants to prove they live in Oklahoma and avoid paying the non-resident fee, they can show ID, like a driver’s license.

Who would have benefited from this law?

✔️Oklahoma Residents: They benefit because they won’t have to pay entry or day-use fees at state parks, making it easier and cheaper for locals to enjoy the parks.

✔️The State Park System: The parks get more money from non-residents who have to pay the fees. This extra funding can be used to maintain and improve the parks.

✔️Park Visitors with Reservations: People who reserve campsites benefit because the law ensures that their spot won’t be taken by someone else who didn’t reserve it.

✔️Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Commission: The Commission benefits by having the authority to set and collect fees, which helps them manage the parks better.

✔️Local Communities: By keeping parks well-funded and maintained, local communities may see more visitors and tourism, boosting local businesses.

What are some concerns people might have about this law?

Some of these may be why the bill failed to pass:

⚠️Higher Costs for Non-Residents: People from outside Oklahoma will have to pay more to visit state parks, which could discourage tourists from visiting.

⚠️Proof of Residency Hassle: Oklahoma residents may need to carry ID to prove where they live, which could be inconvenient, especially for casual visits.

⚠️Less Access for Certain Groups: Without discounted rates for specific age groups (like seniors or kids), some people might find it harder to afford visiting state parks, reducing their access to outdoor activities.

⚠️Enforcement Challenges: It could be difficult to make sure everyone pays the fees and follows the rules, leading to potential disputes or confusion.

⚠️Potential Decrease in Park Visitors: The increased fees and stricter rules may cause fewer people to visit the parks, especially non-residents, which could impact the overall atmosphere and economy in areas near state parks.

For current rules on camping in State Parks in Oklahoma, see TravelOK. Or contact the Oklahoma Tourism Department at 1-405-522-9500.

This bill was introduced on 2/14/24 by Senator George Burns [R], Representative Justin Humphrey [R] and Senator Casey Murdock [R]. Due to a lack of support, missed deadlines, committee action, leadership decisions or veto, this bill failed to pass and will not be signed into law.

➡️Is this something that you think Oklahomans need? How would it have benefited the county you live in?

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