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Reservation fees at state park campgrounds and vehicle entrance fees at reservoirs increase on Thursday

Meredith Miotke for NPR

Effective Thursday, reservation fees at campgrounds and vehicle entrance fees at reservoirs will increase across the state parks system.

Officials with the N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources said it’s the first major fee change for state park facilities since 2019.

While some fees are increasing, most state parks are and will continue to be free to access for day-use year-round. There are no changes to picnic shelter reservation fees, equipment rentals, and swim passes.

Beginning May 1, tent campsites will range from $20 to $30, and RV campsites with full hookups will cost $45. The 2026 State Parks Annual Pass will also increase in price.

 Officials said the increases reflect market adjustments and the higher costs to maintain these facilities.

Details about all the North Carolina state park fees is available HERE.

Annette is an award-winning journalist based in Eastern North Carolina. Her career includes professional stops across the Midwest, Pacific Northwest, and Southeast, recently culminating in a 2026 Region 8 Edward R. Murrow Award for Small Market Radio Best News Series for her work on the Camp Lejeune Justice Act Series. Guided by a passion for human-interest storytelling, she focuses on narratives that touch hearts and connect communities. A mother of four and grandmother of two, Annette enjoys reading and creating epic Halloween costumes in her spare time. If you have a story idea to share, please reach out by email to westona@cravencc.edu.