Major US vacation destination could get more expensive as officials eye new fees

Lake Tahoe could become more expensive for visitors as the U.S. Forest Service considers new and higher recreation fees at several popular sites around the basin.

The Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit is proposing fee changes at campgrounds, beaches, trailheads and other recreation areas, according to a U.S. Department of Agriculture news release.

Under the proposal, some locations that are currently free to visitors would begin charging fees.

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Kiva Beach and the Taylor Creek Visitor Center, for example, would begin charging $10 per vehicle before eventually increasing that to $15, the proposal indicates.

Other locations that already charge visitors could also get more expensive. 

The fee at Eagle Falls Picnic Area and Trailhead would increase from $5 per vehicle to $10 before eventually reaching $15.

Campers could also see new costs. 

Luther Pass Overflow Campground and Watson Lake Campground, which are currently free, would each begin charging $20 per site.

More than 37% of recreation sites would remain free if the changes are approved — while nationally recognized fee-free days would continue, according to the release.

Money collected from the fees would go toward operating, maintaining and improving recreation sites.

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Under federal law, the Forest Service can keep at least 80% of the fees collected at the sites for local use.

"Revenue collected through recreation fees would help the forest improve infrastructure and public services at recreation sites during the season of operation," the USDA said in the release.

The public can comment on details of the proposal through Sept. 29.

After the comment period ends, a citizens advisory committee will review the proposal and make a recommendation to the regional forester, who will make the final decision, according to the press release.

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The proposal has drawn pushback online, with some people raising concerns about having to pay for places they regularly visit.

"Sign me up for the riot if they make Kiva pay to park," one Reddit user wrote.

Another commenter suggested giving local residents a free seasonal parking pass.

"I have no problem paying to recreate in other areas I visit," the user wrote. "But my city of residence? Give me back my tax money, then."

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Another commenter similarly argued that "season passes and fees should only be for non-locals," adding, "I'm happy to pay when I visit other towns."

Not everyone opposed charging fees altogether. 

One commenter said that doing so during the busy summer months could make sense, but questioned charging visitors year-round.

"I can see doing it in the summer because of the amount of visitors," the user wrote. "But doing it year-round feels excessive."

Fox News Digital reached out to the U.S. Forest Service for comment.