Tom Reel/Staff photographer
The cost of a Texas State Parks Pass, which grants unlimited day use of all 88 state parks for a year, is increasing on Sept. 1.
Those wanting to purchase a pass at its current price of $70 have less than two months to buy one. On Sept. 1, the price of an annual parks pass will jump to $95, according to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
It’s the second such price increase since the program’s inception in 2004.
While a reason for
the increase was not given as part of the department’s recent cost increase announcement, Jill Kreindler, a Texas State Parks spokeswoman, said state parks officials hope people will take advantage of the lower price while it lasts.
“Summer is the perfect time to explore new parks and possibly have new experiences with family and friends,” Kreindler said in a
statement. “If you’ve always thought about investing in a park pass, this is the perfect time to do it!”
The Youth Group Annual Pass is also seeing a price increase, from $100 to $150 on Sept. 1. This pass allows free entry to state parks for nonprofit youth group members and a number of adult sponsors.
Applications for the pass received in August but paid on or after Sept. 1 will be charged the new price, officials said.
Many parks offer events such as a nightly dance at Garner State Park through mid-August, or the TEXAS Outdoor Musical that runs Tuesdays through Sundays at the Pioneer Amphitheater at Palo Duro Canyon State
Park. Events happening at every state park are listed on the department's website.
Along with free entry for pass holders and their same-vehicle guests, the park passes offer a 10% discount on most rental items and merchandise in park stores, among other discounts.
Texas State Parks Passes can be purchased at the department’s reservation website, in person at most state parks or by phone at 512-389-8900.
