Marion County updates parks fee schedule and accepts North Santiam Park from state

The Marion County Board of Commissioners on Jan. 22 approved an amended parks fee schedule and accepted a deed transferring North Santiam Park and Campground from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to Marion County.

County Parks Supervisor Kevin Thompson told the board the fee schedule update reflects expanded services and amenities, including a newly launched online campground reservation system and upcoming online picnic-shelter reservations. "This week we launched online campground reservation system," Thompson said. "Visitors no longer have to get there at the break of dawn and wait and huddle in the cold to secure their best location."

Thompson said most day-use parking fees will remain unchanged; tent camping rates will increase from $20 to $25 per night. "When no one has takes pleasure in raising fees... industry wide there have been significant increases in operational maintenance costs over the past 5 to 8 years," he said, arguing modest revenue adjustments are needed to maintain services. Commissioners confirmed the $5 day-use parking fee and annual pass levels are unchanged.

In a separate motion, the board unanimously approved a deed conveying North Santiam Park and Campground to Marion County. Thompson said the county and Oregon State Parks entered a two-year trial maintenance agreement in 2021 to demonstrate Marion County’s ability to operate the park to state standards. "In 2023 that trial had ended successfully," he said, and a deed is now ready for signing.

Thompson described the site as a riverfront park along Highway 22 between Lyons and Mill City that includes a natural boat ramp used by river rafters, hiking trails and 13 working campsites. He noted the park has higher-level amenities than many county sites, including drinking water and flush restrooms, and that several parcels associated with the property are currently inaccessible by road. "It also helps to support the ongoing mission of the parks program," Thompson said.

Commissioners praised the transfer and the new reservation system. One commissioner noted the county previously considered short-term housing there for wildfire victims but said the proposal did not proceed; Thompson emphasized that Oregon State Parks has been a cooperative partner in the transfer. The motions to approve the fee-schedule amendment and to accept the deed each passed by unanimous voice vote.

The fee schedule change takes effect per the approved order (referenced in exhibit materials) and the park deed will proceed to signature and recording as next steps.