Forest officials announced they are considering updates to recreation fees at approximately 35 developed recreation sites across the forest, including campgrounds and rental cabins. The proposal represents about 19% of the forest’s roughly 180 developed recreation locations. (fs.usda.gov)

According to forest officials, no fee changes would take effect before next year, and the forest will continue participating in annual fee-free recreation days.

“We understand how vital our recreation areas are to the communities we serve and to everyone who visits the Manti-La Sal National Forest,” said Barbara Van Alstine, forest supervisor. “Our commitment is to provide high-quality, welcoming outdoor experiences. Recreation fees play a crucial role in helping us maintain clean, safe, and accessible sites for all to enjoy.”

The Manti-La Sal National Forest stretches across central and southeastern Utah and into western Colorado and serves as one of Utah’s most popular outdoor destinations for camping, hiking, fishing, trail riding and other recreation opportunities. (fs.usda.gov)

Forest officials say the proposed adjustments are intended to help maintain and improve recreation infrastructure while creating a more sustainable funding model for future operations.

Under the Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act, approved by Congress in 2004, the Forest Service is allowed to retain at least 80% of recreation fee revenue locally and reinvest those dollars directly into the operation, maintenance and improvement of recreation facilities. Forest officials say those funds help support visitor services, facility upkeep and long-term access improvements. (fs.usda.gov)

The agency emphasized that many recreation opportunities throughout the forest remain free and that only a portion of developed sites are included in the proposal. The detailed list of affected campgrounds, cabins and proposed pricing adjustments is available through the forest’s recreation fee proposal information online.

The public comment period will remain open through the close of business on Aug. 15, 2026.

Comments may be submitted by mail to:

Manti-La Sal National Forest

Attention: Myron Jeffs

599 W. Price River Drive

Price, UT 84501

Comments may also be emailed to SM.FS.MLSNF.FEE@usda.gov, submitted online, delivered in person at the Supervisor’s Office in Price between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, or provided by phone at 435-636-3516.

Following the public comment period, the proposed fee changes will be reviewed by a citizen advisory committee made up of representatives from various recreation interest groups. That committee will then forward recommendations to the Regional Forester, who will make the final decision on whether the fee changes move forward.

If approved, updated recreation fees would begin in 2027.