The decision to keep discounts at their current rate was made by USDA Forest Service Chief Tom Tidwell.
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After considering many public comments, Tidwell determined the proposed changes were not the best way to address growing challenges regarding services provided by private businesses at Forest Service recreation facilities.
"Each year more than 175 million persons enjoy recreational opportunities on National Forests and Grasslands, and that includes more than 15 million visits to our campgrounds," said Tidwell. "Particularly in these difficult economic times, it is very important to maintain affordable access to our National Forests and Grasslands, giving people easy ways to recreate and find respite in the great outdoors."
Tidwell's decision leaves in place a 50 percent discount at campgrounds run by private concessions for holders of Golden Age and Golden Access Passports and Interagency Senior and Access Passes.
Concessioners are not required to accept passes at day use sites. Seniors age 62 and older pay a one-time $10 fee for the Senior Pass. Lifetime Access Passes for people with disabilities are free.
Campground fees vary, so those interested in using their discount should check with the concessioner campground at which they are planning to stay.
The mission of the USDA Forest Service is to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of the nation's forests and grasslands to meet the needs of present and future generations. The agency manages 193 million acres of National Forest System land, provides stewardship assistance to non-federal forest landowners, and maintains the largest forestry research organization in the world.
For more information, visit the Forest Service Web site at www.fs.fed.us
