Camping
Discount passes reduce cost of RV overnights
By
May 5, 2010, 13:54

Everybody loves a discount. For RVers, a discount on camping fees can make a big difference on how long a road trip will last. When fuel costs get too tight, you can always hunker down and stay a few extra days--unless the camp fees are too heavy.

We find a lot of folk new to RVing aren't aware of some fine camping discounts available to those who qualify. First, let's talk about federal park discounts.

For seniors, how about a pass that not only gives you a 50% reduction in campground fees (some concession operated camps may not give it), but also waives gate entry fees? That would be the "America the Beautiful Senior Pass," for US citizens over 62. The pass is good for a lifetime, and costs $10--get one at any National Park office.

For disabled folks, a similar pass called "America the Beautiful Access Pass" has the same benefits, but has no application fee. If you are permanently disabled and can prove it up by, in the words the federales, "A statement by a licensed physician; document issued by a Federal agency such as the Veteran’s Administration, Social Security Disability Income or Supplemental Security Income; or document issued by a State agency such as a vocational rehabilitation agency." Get your pass at a National Park office.

These passes are good on many federal lands. National Parks, Wildlife Refuges, National Forests, and more. But what about state parks?

Many state's park systems have discount arrangements for their individual residents. For example, Washington State Parks offers a 50% discount on camping fees and boat launching to permanently disabled Washington residents. A similar break is given to their low income senior citizen residents.

But what if you're not a "state resident" and you'd like the discount. Try California's park system (OK, with whatever state parks are still operating). Disabled folks can apply for a Disabled Discount Pass and receive 50% of campground fees--even if they're not California residents. This is a really great program that other state park systems ought to take a look at imitating.

With so many states and so little time, we suggest you fire up your Internet browser, and do a quick search for your own state's park system coupled with "discount pass" as a search term. A few minutes browsing might save you a considerable amount of cash at the campground.

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