Beginning June 1, campers at the Griffin Park campground in Pierre will pay more during peak season, but also starting June 1, campers will no longer be restricted on how long they stay any time of year.
The Pierre City Commission updated the campground policy at last night’s (Tues) meeting.
Parks and Recreation Director Tom Farnsworth said camping fees have been the same since 2006.
Farnsworth says in the summer months, bathhouses are open and water service is available, so the increased fee helps cover the cost of operating those facilities. Also, a new RV filling station was recently installed and a shower house and storm shelter was opened in Griffin Park last year. He says in the colder months, those services aren’t available, thus the lower camping fee.
Farnsworth says the campground in Griffin Park is rarely at max capacity so there isn’t a strong reason to continue limiting the number of nights people can stay.
He says tent camping will no longer be allowed.
However, Farnsworth says he will consider special events– such as a boy scout troop wanting to tent camp– on a case by case basis.
The city has 16 RV spots available on a first come, first serve basis; There is no reservation system. Camping privileges can be revoked for violation of city ordinance or validated complaints.
Again, the Pierre City Commission has approved raising RV camper fees at the Griffin Park campground between the beginning of May and the end of October to $25 a night, up from the current $16 per night. The fee for camping between the beginning of November and the end of April remains $10 a night.
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