Under the proposal, standard sites in the Parkway’s eight front country campgrounds would go from $20 per night to $30, while front country group sites at Linville Falls, Doughton Park and Rocky Knob would go from $35 to $45. The dump fees and shower fees for non-campers would double from $3 to $6. The Parkway’s three backcountry campsites, which previously carried no charge, would now cost $15 per night.

The last major fee increase on the Parkway occurred in 2016. According to a press release, the new rates were proposed following research on local campground rates and services provided outside the park. The proposed rates were found to be comparable with current market rates in the surrounding area.

The new front country camping fees would mirror those currently in place in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where standard front country campground sites cost $30 per night, though backcountry camping in the Smokies is significantly cheaper at $8 per night. Revenue from recreation fees helps fund facility maintenance, future campground improvement projects and increased costs associated with campground operations. Following public engagement and National Park Service approval, new fees could be implemented as soon as May 2024.

To comment visit parkplanning.nps.gov/blri2024fees or mail hard copies to Blue Ridge Parkway HQ, 199 Hemphill Knob Road, Asheville, NC 28803, RE: Campground fee comment.