Forest Service proposes fee increases for campsites and motorized trails

The U.S. Forest Service is considering fee increases to specific sites across the Black Hills and motorized OHV use permits.

If approved, the increases would become effective in 2025.

Locally, the only proposed increases would be for use of the motorized trails, which would include a new day fee of $10 per vehicle, as well as an increase from $20 to $30 for the weekly fee and from $25 to $50 for a season pass.

The additional proposed increases include Meeker Cabin near Custer, Summit Ridge Cabin near Newcastle, Jenny Gulch Picnic Area at Pactola Reservoir and Wrinkled Rock Climbing Area near Mount Rushmore.

“Usage at recreation sites on the Black Hills National Forest has changed over the past 15-20 years,” says Shawn Cochran, Forest Supervisor.

“An increase of fees is needed to meet public expectations and the increasing demands of recreation activities across the forest.”

At least 80% of the funds from the increased fees will remain on the Forest to be used to operate, maintain and improve Forest Service facilities. The intent is to improve infrastructure at campsites and day-use areas and hire additional recreation staff.

It’s mainly about the “shoulder seasons”, says Patrick Champa, District Ranger: the periods before and after the regular summer months when concessionaires are keeping recreation sites open as weather permits.

The funds will help to “provide quality recreation opportunities that meet the modern expectations of visitors and creates a more financially sustainable developed recreation program for the benefit of future generations,” states a Forest Service press release announcing the proposed increases.

The proposal will be reviewed by the Black Hills National Forest Advisory Board (NFAB) and the Wyoming Recreation Action Team (REACT) for those sites in Wyoming.

A comment period for the public will remain open until November 29. Submit feedback to Black Hills National Forest, Attention: Bradley Block – Recreation Program Manager, 1019 N 5th Street, Custer, SD 57730 or [email protected]. Comments can also be provided online at https://arcg.is/qyij80.

Oral comments can be provided in person at the Black Hills National Forest to Bradley Block during normal business hours (Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.) or by calling 605-673-9200 and indicating you would like to provide comments on the proposed recreation fee changes.