This year the WA State parks implimented a parking fee scheme to raise money
to keep their extensive park system operating. The marine parks are also
included in this system

The fee was suppose to be $5 a day for all park visiters. However the also
offered an annual parking pass for $50. I have one of the annual passes but
now, in mid season, I find the most popular Marine parks are charging an
additional $10 for overnite parking, even if you have a pass. Seems they
classified most areas as 'Day Use Only' and the annual pass is now
classified as a Day Use pass and if you want to park overnite, "Kaching",
that will be $10 more please.

Seems pretty high since they only charge $7 for a mooring and from $10 to 16
per day for dock tie up.

Initially I felt fortunate that I qualified for a Limited Income Senior deal
and got the mooring fees for half price, but they won't discount the parking
fees or offer a annual pass for overnite parking.

When I called the State Parks main offices about this, they basically told
me it was the policy at all state parks but could tell me how it was applied
even handedly with the camper and the boaters. Seems if I register as a
camper I can park all night for the camping fee.

Oh Well, I'm just venting here.. I park on the county road outside the gate
and I'm looking for a bike. (gee I hope they don't start charging for
bikes, like the WA State ferrys.)


Steve
s/v Good Intentions