Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department Director Sterling Zearley said two dozen of Oklahoma’s state parks charge fees for day-use visitors, with exceptions for veterans and seniors aged 62 or older.
More than 170,000 parking passes have been sold so far this year. The fees generate approximately $2.6 million annually for park maintenance and upgrades, Zearley said.
Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust Policy Manager Lauren Ford presented data on Oklahoma’s poor health rankings and how parks, trails and other recreation areas play a role in encouraging active lifestyles.
“We shouldn’t charge residents to access our beautiful state parks, especially in a state where too many people struggle with obesity, heart disease and other preventable health issues,” Senator Standridge said. “These fees curb park use and eliminating them would make nature and wellness more accessible for all Oklahomans.”
Standridge invited her constituent, Dave Spaulding, to share how the parking fees have discouraged him and his family from visiting Lake Thunderbird, which is located just five miles from their home.
“It’s time to explore alternative funding options for our parks that don’t place the burden on Oklahoma taxpayers,” Standridge said. “There was an idea presented during the study about a potential partnership between TSET and the Tourism Department to cover residents’ state park fees. I look forward to continuing that discussion moving forward.”
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