GUNNISON, Colo. - The National Park Service (NPS) is seeking the public’s comment on changes to campground and boating fee increases under consideration for Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and Curecanti National Recreation Area. The proposed changes would take effect in January 2024.
The campground fees have not been updated since before 2016. Boat launch fees have not changed since at least 2003. The proposed pricing structure would bring the parks into closer alignment with nearby and comparable campground and boating services. The increased fees would provide additional revenue to fund operations and deferred maintenance projects.
Camping fees are authorized under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA). Recent projects completed at Black Canyon and Curecanti using FLREA funds include rehabilitation of trails, upgrading a campground amphitheater, and improvements to the marina systems.
Comments regarding these fee-increase proposals may be submitted electronically on the NPS Planning, Environment, and Public Comment (PEPC) website at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/BLCACUREFEES2023 during the 30-day public comment period from August 16 to Sept. 16, 2023. Written comments may be sent to: Superintendent, Curecanti National Recreation Area, 102 Elk Creek, Gunnison, CO 81230. Comments must be postmarked by Sept. 16, 2023.
The public comment period is part of the planning and compliance process and provides the park valuable information and feedback on preferences from the public. Please share your comments.
More information about camping and recreational opportunities at both parks can be found at www.nps.gov/blca and www.nps.gov/cure.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service