The National Park Service recently approved changes to wilderness permit fees at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and group campsite fees at Curecanti National Recreation Area. After seeking public input in July and reviewing feedback, the fee updates will officially take effect in January 2025.

These changes aim to bring the parks' fees in line with similar wilderness areas and group campgrounds across the country, based on a fee compatibility study conducted by the NPS. The study revealed that wilderness permit fees at Black Canyon were significantly lower than average, and most group campsites comparable to those at Curecanti have seen price increases in recent years. The updated fees are designed to reflect the services and amenities provided while remaining affordable for visitors.

Updates for Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park

Wilderness permits are required for day and overnight use of South Rim wilderness routes, including Warner, Gunnison, and Tomichi routes. Starting in April 2025, reservations for trips between May and October will be available exclusively on Recreation.gov. Red Rock Canyon permits are already part of this system.

Wilderness Permit Costs: $6 base fee + $4 per person per permit

Permit Restrictions:

* Maximum group size: 4 people

* Maximum duration: 3 nights

* Daily quotas apply for each route

Permits for wilderness routes on the South Rim and Red Rock Canyon will only be available online during the peak season (May–October). Visitors planning trips during this time will need to secure permits in advance. Permit holders must also pay the standard park entrance fee.

For trips between November and April, permits will remain free and available on a first-come, first-served basis. These can be obtained at the visitor center (when open) or through self-registration outside the visitor center during off-hours. Daily quotas will still apply.

Updates for Curecanti National Recreation Area

Group campsites at Curecanti National Recreation Area will also see updated fees starting in January 2025:

* East Elk Creek Group Campsite: $120 per night (accommodates 9–50 people)

* Red Creek Group Campsite: $60 per night (accommodates 9–20 people)

Why Are the Fees Changing?

The updates are authorized under the 2004 Federal Lands Recreation Enhancement Act (FLREA), which allows the NPS to charge fees for certain recreation services. FLREA requires that these fees be reasonable, reflect the benefits provided, and align with comparable offerings in the local area.

Most of the fees collected (80%) will stay within Black Canyon of the Gunnison and Curecanti, funding essential projects like trail repairs, campground upgrades, and infrastructure improvements (water, sewer, and waste systems). The remaining 20% will support agency-wide initiatives across the National Park Service.

These changes are part of a broader effort to enhance visitor experiences while ensuring that the parks remain sustainable for future generations.